The announcement of iOS 18 at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference 2024 brings many new features and improvements, some of which may impact the iGaming industry. Both players and operators will benefit from enhanced customisation options, improved security measures, and performance upgrades that promise to elevate the user experience. After yesterday’s keynote at WWDC 2024, we’ve put together a list of 7 new iOS 18 features and how they will influence iGaming.

1. Game Mode
Let’s start with, perhaps, the most significant update for the iGaming industry: the introduction of Game Mode. This feature minimises background activities to improve game performance and enhances responsiveness with AirPods and wireless gaming controllers. There’s no special switch to toggle, instead iPhones operating iOS 18 will automatically trigger game mode where appropriate to provide a higher quality gaming experience. The result is smoother gameplay, reduced latency, and a more immersive experience. Game Mode is a game-changer for users seeking optimal performance and for developers aiming to deliver high-quality gaming experiences.

2. Customisable Home and Lock Screens
iOS 18 introduces extensive customisation options for home and lock screens. Users can arrange app icons and widgets in any layout, allowing them to prioritise gaming apps and place them where they are most accessible. This feature means users can choose quick access to their favourite games instead of default tools like the camera or flashlight, enhancing the overall user experience and convenience.

3. Updated Control Centre
The updated Control Centre in iOS 18 allows users to customise which apps and controls are easily accessible, including music and specific iGaming apps. This makes it easier for players to quickly access and control their games and gaming-related settings, streamlining the user interface and making the gaming experience more intuitive.

4. Lock and Hide Apps
Users can lock and hide apps with the new iOS 18 update, requiring Face ID or a passcode to unlock them. This is particularly useful for iGaming apps that contain sensitive information or payment details, providing an additional layer of security and privacy for users. For operators, this feature ensures that their apps can offer a more secure environment, boosting user trust and confidence.

5. Improved Password Management
iOS 18 introduces a dedicated Passwords app, transforming the password keychain feature into a full-blown app that safely stores all credentials and syncs them across Apple devices. This is particularly useful for users who manage multiple accounts across different iGaming platforms, ensuring that they can easily and securely access their profiles without the hassle of remembering numerous passwords and the safety of having those passwords protected.

6. App Intents
App Intents is a new way to engage with apps using Siri. Users can now use voice commands to interact with their favourite iGaming apps, for example, “Hey Siri, buy a Quick Pick for Daily Million.” This new feature makes it easier and faster for users to perform specific actions within iGaming apps, opening up new possibilities for seamless, voice-activated interactions, enhancing user convenience and engagement.

7. Advanced Accessibility Features
Finally, new accessibility functionalities in iOS 18, such as eye tracking and custom voice controls, can be used to make iGaming apps more inclusive. Eye tracking allows users to control games with their gaze, while custom voice controls enable them to navigate and interact using personalised voice commands. These advancements ensure that iGaming apps using iOS 18 are more accessible to a broader range of users, including those with disabilities, expanding the potential player base and enhancing the gaming experience for all users.

The iOS 18 update is poised to enhance the iGaming experience through a combination of performance improvements, better customisation options, and advanced features. These updates will enable developers of iGaming apps to create more engaging, secure, and personalised experiences. For users, the enhanced performance, security, and customisation options will make gaming more enjoyable and accessible. As the iGaming industry continues to grow, the innovations introduced in iOS 18 will play a crucial role in shaping its future.