iOS 18.4 has arrived, introducing numerous exciting features. One standout? A fresh Apple Music function that broadens the service’s availability, extending its presence beyond just the Music app and making its way into the Control Center and beyond.
Expanded Ambient Music Controls in iOS 18.4
Once you upgrade to iOS 18.4, you might find yourself exploring your favorite apps to check for updates.
Diving into the Music app may not reveal obvious new features. This is because the latest enhancement for Apple Music isn’t located directly within the app itself.
Instead, Apple has innovatively integrated Apple Music’s capabilities into a new selection of Ambient Music controls within iOS 18.4.
In essence, this update introduces unique methods to access Apple Music ‘mood’ playlists without needing to open the Music app directly.
iOS 18.4 features support for four distinct moods, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see additional options in future updates.
- Sleep
- Chill
- Productivity
- Wellbeing
Each mood control is linked to play a specific Apple Music playlist. For instance, the Productivity control is preset to play BEATstrumentals, but it allows users to choose from three other curated playlists or set it to activate any playlist of their preference.
You can assign these new music controls to any of the following locations:
- Control Center
- Your Lock Screen
- The iPhone’s Action button
To update a control’s playlist setting, enter editing mode and tap on the control to access customization options.
Conclusion on Apple Music in iOS 18.4
While launching the Music app will remain the primary method for most users to engage with Apple Music, I truly appreciate the advancements made with iOS 18.4’s new Ambient Music controls. The option to assign a mood playlist button to the Lock Screen, Action button, or Control Center streamlines the music playback process.
This also alleviates my own decision fatigue when opening the Music app and facing an overwhelming array of choices. Now, I have a straightforward toggle to suit specific moments.
What are your thoughts on the ambient music features introduced in iOS 18.4? Share your opinions in the comments below.
