Apple’s latest iPhone software update, iOS 18, introduces a range of new features designed to streamline daily life, improve communication, and enhance privacy. For parents, these updates are particularly useful, offering practical solutions for managing screen time, safeguarding personal data, and staying in touch with their children. Whether it’s improved messaging or enhanced security measures, iOS 18 brings a wealth of tools to simplify modern family life.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the standout features that parents should be aware of.
Lock and Hide Apps with Face ID
One of the most valuable updates in iOS 18 is the ability to lock specific apps using Face ID. For parents, this feature offers greater control over what children can access when borrowing your phone. How many times have you handed your phone to your child for a quick game, only to discover they’ve opened other apps, browsing through emails or messages?
With iOS 18, you can prevent this from happening. Simply press and hold the app icon until a menu appears, then select “Require Face ID.” If you choose “Hide and Require Face ID,” the app will be removed from the home screen and placed in the App Library under the “Hidden” category, accessible only through Face ID. This ensures that sensitive apps, such as those containing personal notes or shopping lists, are kept secure from prying eyes.
For parents, this added layer of security provides peace of mind, ensuring that children can use the phone safely without accidentally accessing personal or inappropriate content.
Improved Messaging Between iPhones and Androids
Communication between iPhones and Android devices has long been a source of frustration for families. Messages between iPhones appear as blue bubbles, while those sent to Android phones are green, often lacking the same functionality, such as read receipts or typing indicators. This can lead to confusion or claims of missed messages.
iOS 18 addresses this issue by introducing improved compatibility through Rich Communication Services (RCS). By enabling RCS Messaging in the Messages app settings, users can now enjoy enhanced features, such as read receipts and real-time typing indicators, even when messaging an Android phone. This means that your child can no longer claim they didn’t receive your message reminding them of their curfew.
However, it’s important to note that this feature only works if the Android device is also using RCS. If not, messages will revert to the standard SMS format, and the messaging experience will remain the same as before.
Satellite iMessage: Staying Connected Without Signal
In an age where connectivity is essential, Apple’s expansion of its satellite communication features is a major highlight of iOS 18. Previously introduced as an emergency feature, iOS 18 now allows users with iPhone 14 models and newer to send regular messages via satellite when Wi-Fi or cellular signal is unavailable.
This feature is particularly useful for families who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or travelling to remote areas with limited mobile coverage. Should you find yourself without service, your phone will prompt you to send messages via satellite, whether to another iPhone or an Android device.
Additionally, this feature is integrated into the “Find My” app, allowing parents to track the location of their children even when they are in areas without signal. In the event of car trouble or other emergencies, satellite functionality also supports requesting roadside assistance.
Apple Cash: Quick and Easy Family Payments
Another handy update in iOS 18 is the simplified process of sending money with Apple Pay. Previously, to transfer money, you needed the recipient’s contact details or phone number. Now, with iOS 18, you can simply tap iPhones together to transfer funds using Apple Cash.
For parents, this is an ideal solution when your child needs a few pounds for the cinema or a snack while out with friends. The ease of tap-to-pay eliminates the hassle of navigating payment apps or sending money through more time-consuming methods, making managing family finances more efficient.
Schedule Text Messages
Parents know how easy it is to forget a well-timed reminder, whether it’s about picking up a child from school or reminding them about homework. iOS 18 introduces a “Send Later” feature in the iMessage app, allowing users to schedule text messages for a future time and date.
This is especially helpful for sending reminders about curfews or check-ins without needing to keep track of the time manually. To schedule a message, tap the “+” symbol in the bottom-left corner of the Messages app and select “Send Later.” Once scheduled, the message will appear as a transparent chat bubble, and the send time can be edited or cancelled if necessary.
This feature ensures that important reminders are sent precisely when they’re needed, without requiring parents to pause what they’re doing to send a message in real-time.
SharePlay on FaceTime: Support from Afar
Technical support within families can often be a challenge, especially when helping elderly relatives or children navigate their devices remotely. iOS 18’s SharePlay feature for FaceTime addresses this by allowing users to share and control another person’s screen during a video call.
For example, if grandparents are struggling with their iPhone settings or children need help with a new app, you can now guide them through the process in real time. During a FaceTime call, press the SharePlay button, and request to share the other person’s screen. Once they approve, their screen will appear on your device, allowing you to provide step-by-step instructions. If necessary, you can even take control of their screen to resolve the issue more efficiently.
This feature simplifies long-distance tech support, offering a more effective way to help family members with their devices without the confusion of trying to explain actions over the phone.
A New Passwords App
Managing multiple passwords is a modern-day challenge, especially for families with shared accounts for streaming services, online shopping, or school portals. iOS 18 introduces a new Passwords app that consolidates all the passwords saved in iCloud Keychain into a dedicated space.
This app allows users to share specific passwords with family members, ensuring that children can access shared services such as Disney+ or Netflix without constantly asking parents for login details. The Passwords app simplifies password management, offering a secure way to store and share credentials within trusted family groups.
Enhanced Security and Convenience for Families
iOS 18 delivers a range of features designed to improve security, communication, and convenience for families. From locking apps with Face ID to scheduling important reminders and sharing passwords securely, the update provides parents with a variety of tools to make everyday life easier.
The improved compatibility with Android devices and the introduction of satellite messaging ensure that families stay connected, even in challenging environments. As Apple continues to refine its software, parents can expect even more innovative features in future updates, further simplifying how technology fits into modern family dynamics.
