How to customize your iPhone’s home screen in iOS 18

Engadget - Apr 5th, 2025

Apple has officially launched iOS 18, introducing a host of new customization options for iPhone users to personalize their home screens. The update allows users to take full control of app placement, add and modify widgets, and even change app icon colors. With these enhancements, users can easily organize their apps, declutter their screens, and create a more personalized and efficient user experience. The update also features new security options, allowing apps to be locked or hidden for privacy, and introduces the ability to create folders for better app organization.

This development signifies Apple's continued focus on user personalization, responding to consumer demands for greater control over device interfaces. The new customization options reflect a shift in smartphone design towards more user-centric features. By enabling users to tailor their home screens and enhance privacy, Apple aims to improve user satisfaction and engagement. The implications of this update extend to app developers as well, who may need to adapt their applications to fit seamlessly into the new customizable layouts offered by iOS 18.

Apple I Os 18 User Experience I Phone Customization Widgets App Organization Privacy Features

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RATING

7.0

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article effectively informs readers about the new customization features in iOS 18, providing clear instructions and a detailed overview. Its strengths lie in clarity, readability, and timeliness, making it a valuable resource for iPhone users interested in personalizing their devices. However, the article could benefit from greater balance and transparency, as it primarily highlights positive aspects without addressing potential limitations or challenges. Additionally, explicit source citations would enhance the credibility and reliability of the information presented. Overall, the article serves its purpose well but could be improved with a more comprehensive perspective and detailed sourcing.

Accuracy

The article accurately describes the new features of iOS 18, such as the ability to customize app placement, add and edit widgets, and change app icon colors. These features are well-supported by Apple's official documentation and other credible sources. However, the article could benefit from additional verification on the limitations of third-party widget compatibility and the specific apps that allow icon customization, as these details can vary and affect user experience.

Balance

The article focuses primarily on the positive aspects of iOS 18's customization features, offering a one-sided view that may overlook potential drawbacks or limitations. There is little discussion of any challenges users might face, such as compatibility issues with third-party apps or widgets. Including a broader range of perspectives, such as user feedback or expert analysis, could provide a more balanced view.

Clarity

The article is clear and well-structured, with a logical flow that guides readers through the new iOS 18 features. The language is straightforward and accessible, making it easy for readers to understand the customization options available on their iPhones. The use of step-by-step instructions enhances clarity and usability for the audience.

Source quality

The article references Apple's iOS 18 features accurately, likely drawing from official Apple announcements or trusted tech sources. However, the lack of explicit source citations within the article itself limits the ability to fully assess the credibility and reliability of the information presented. Including direct links or references to Apple's official guides or tech reviews would enhance source quality.

Transparency

The article lacks transparency regarding its sources and the basis for its claims. It does not provide explicit citations or disclose the methodology behind the information presented. Greater transparency would involve detailing the sources of information, such as official Apple releases or expert reviews, to support the claims made in the article.