Top 10 iOS 18 Features to Turn Off for Better Performance

With the release of iOS 18, Apple has introduced a plethora of new features and settings that, while innovative, can impact your iPhone's performance, battery life, and privacy. Here are the top 10 features you might consider turning off to optimize your device.

1. Automatic App Downloads

If you have multiple Apple devices, turning off Automatic App Downloads can help keep your devices organized and reduce unnecessary data usage. Go to Settings > App Store and toggle off App Downloads under the Automatic Downloads section. This prevents apps downloaded on one device from automatically appearing on all your other devices.

2. Background App Refresh

Background App Refresh allows apps to download new content in the background, which can significantly drain your battery. To manage this, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh. Here, you can either turn off Background App Refresh entirely or set it to refresh only when connected to Wi-Fi. This setting helps in conserving battery life.

3. Video Autoplay in the App Store

Video autoplay in the App Store can be both annoying and a battery drainer. To turn it off, navigate to Settings > App Store and tap on Video Autoplay. Switch off the video autoplay feature to prevent videos from playing automatically when you browse the App Store.

4. In-App Ratings and Reviews

Constantly being asked to rate and review apps can be intrusive. To disable this, go to Settings > App Store and turn off the switch next to In-App Ratings & Reviews. This will prevent apps from prompting you for reviews.

5. Analytics and Improvements

Apple collects data to improve its products, but you can opt out if you're concerned about privacy. Go to Settings, scroll down to Analytics & Improvements, and turn off the main switch. This will disable most of the other related switches automatically.

6. Personalized Ads

To enhance your privacy, you can turn off Personalized Ads. Navigate to Settings > Apple Advertising and toggle off Personalized Ads. This prevents Apple from using your data to personalize ads.

7. Location Tracking

Be cautious of apps that request constant location tracking. Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services and review the apps listed. Change the location access for unnecessary apps to While Using the App or None, and consider turning off Precise Location for apps that don't need it.

8. Siri Always Listening

The feature that allows Siri to always listen for commands can consume significant battery power. To disable it, go to Settings > Siri & Search and turn off Listen for "Hey Siri" or Allow "Hey Siri" when your iPhone is locked or facing down.

9. 5G Data Mode

If you don't have an unlimited data plan, managing your 5G data usage is crucial. Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Data Mode and set it to Standard. Also, ensure 5G Auto is selected under Voice & Data and turn off 5G Standalone to balance performance and battery life.

10. iCloud Backup Over Cellular

Backing up your iPhone to iCloud over cellular data can burn through your data cap and drain your battery. To avoid this, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and turn off the switch. This ensures iCloud backups only occur when you're connected to Wi-Fi.

By adjusting these settings, you can significantly improve your iPhone's performance, extend battery life, and enhance your privacy and security in iOS 18.