iOS 18 hidden feature: How to use Open App for customisation

Apple's latest iOS 18 public beta has recently announced an innovative feature for iPhone users — the Open App. This hidden feature enables you to fully customise your iOS device's controls.

What is an Open App?

Open App is a prebuilt shortcut that lets you open any app from your Control Center or lock screen to open any application right from your Control Center or lock screen. This feature enables you to create controls not included in the Controls library — a free pass to launch your favourite app with style.

Read more: How to customise your routes with Apple Maps iOS 18

How to use Open App for lock screen

1. Open Settings then tap Wallpaper.
2. Tap the screen you'd like to customize -- your lock screen is always on the left.
3. Tap the minus (-) sign next to the control you want to remove across the bottom of your screen, you can only replace these two controls; you can't add more.
4. click the plus (+) sign in the newly open space.
5. select ‘Open App.’
6. Tap ‘Choose’ option in the shortcut menu.
7. Tap the app you want to create a shortcut for.
8. choose a space around the shortcut menu.
9. Tap Done in the top right corner of your screen.

How to use Open App in Control Center

1. Swipe down from the top right corner of your iPhone to open your Control Center.
2. Tap the plus (+) symbol in the top left corner of your screen.
3. Select Add a Control across the bottom of your screen.
4. Tap ‘Open App’ you can find it under Shortcuts or search for it in the search bar at the top of your screen.
5. Click the ‘Choose’ option in the shortcut menu.
6. Tap the app you want to create a control for.
7. Choose a space around the shortcut menu.
8. Press and hold the new control to move it where you want it.
9. Tap a blank space in your Control Center or lock your screen to finish.