Apple’s latest iPhone update, iOS 18, was released last week, offering several new features designed to make life easier for you and your family. With updates focused on privacy, communication, and convenience, here are a few features that parents should pay attention to, particularly for managing screen time, safeguarding sensitive apps, and staying connected.
Lock and Hide Apps with Face ID
We’ve all been there: handing your phone to your kids in a waiting room, only to find they’ve wandered into apps they shouldn’t be exploring. One of the most useful iOS 18 updates for parents is the ability to lock specific apps using Face ID. To enable this feature, simply press and hold the app until a menu appears. From there, select “Require Face ID.”
You also have the option to “Hide and Require Face ID,” which moves the app from your home screen to the App Library under a hidden category. This is perfect for apps containing sensitive information, such as a holiday shopping list or important work documents. The app can only be opened with Face ID, ensuring that it remains out of your children’s reach.
Enhanced Messaging Between iPhones and Androids
While the dreaded “green bubbles” from Android phones are still here, iOS 18 improves messaging between iPhones and Android devices. By enabling “RCS Messaging” in your iPhone’s Messages settings, you can now enjoy features like read receipts, typing indicators, and location sharing with Android users—making communication with your kids smoother, regardless of the device they use.
However, keep in mind that this feature requires the Android phone to support RCS as well. If not, messages will revert to traditional SMS, and you’ll see an “SMS” label in the text field.
Satellite iMessage for Emergency Communication
iOS 18 expands Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite feature to allow users of iPhone 14 and later models to send messages via satellite when cellular or Wi-Fi connections are unavailable. To explore how this works, head to the “Satellite Connection Demo” in the Messages app settings. The system kicks in automatically when you lose signal, allowing you to continue sending SMS and iMessages to both iPhones and Androids.
Additionally, you can use this feature in the “Find My” app to share your location and even request Roadside Assistance if needed.
Easy Money Transfers with Apple Cash
With iOS 18, sending money within your family just got more convenient. Previously, you needed the recipient’s contact details or phone number to transfer funds. Now, with the tap of two iPhones, you can instantly send money using Apple Pay, making it simpler than ever to give your child a few bucks for a movie or other needs.
Schedule Text Messages
To ensure you never forget to remind your child about curfews or important tasks, iOS 18 introduces the “Send Later” feature in iMessage. By tapping the “+” icon in the bottom-left corner of the Messages app and selecting “Send Later,” you can schedule text messages for a specific time and date. The message will appear as a transparent chat bubble with a dotted outline, and you can adjust or cancel the scheduled time before it’s sent. This feature helps you stay on top of reminders without needing to send texts at the last minute.
SharePlay on FaceTime
Helping older family members with their iPhones just got easier with the improved SharePlay feature in FaceTime. During a call, you can interact with the other person’s device by pressing the SharePlay button and selecting “Ask to Share.” Once the other person approves, their screen will appear on your display, allowing you to walk them through troubleshooting or app usage step by step. If needed, you can even request control of their screen for more direct assistance.
New Passwords App for Easy Sharing
All passwords saved in iCloud Keychain are now housed in a dedicated “Passwords” app, making it easier to share login details with family members. You can create shared groups for specific apps or accounts, so your kids can access services like Disney+ without needing to ask you each time. This simplifies password management and ensures your family has access to the accounts they need.
With these iOS 18 updates, parents can enjoy greater peace of mind when it comes to managing app privacy, communicating effectively with family members, and staying connected in emergencies.
