iOS 18 gives camera apps privileges when added to Lock Screen
How does the new API in iOS 18 enhance the functionality of third-party camera apps on the Lock Screen?
The new API in iOS 18, called "LockedCameraCapture," enhances the functionality of third-party camera apps on the Lock Screen by providing them with special privileges that were previously only available to Apple's Camera app. This API allows developers to create an extension to their camera app that runs directly from the Lock Screen when the user replaces the Camera app shortcut with it.
With this API, third-party camera apps can now open instantly without requiring authentication, just like Apple's Camera app. The extensions must show the camera view immediately after the user interacts with it, ensuring a seamless and quick capturing experience. These extensions also don't require Face ID or Touch ID authentication.
Moreover, the extensions are integrated with the new Controls API, making them work through the Control Center as well. However, to protect user data, these extensions will not show the user's photo library without authentication and cannot interact with the network or access other parts of the system.
Overall, the new API in iOS 18 significantly enhances the functionality of third-party camera apps on the Lock Screen by providing them with the same privileges as Apple's Camera app, making the user experience more seamless and customizable.
What specific privileges does the "LockedCameraCapture" API grant to third-party camera apps?
The "LockedCameraCapture" API grants special privileges to third-party camera apps on the iOS 18 Lock Screen. These privileges include opening the camera app instantly without requiring authentication or a password, similar to Apple's Camera app. Developers can create an extension to their camera app that runs directly from the Lock Screen when the user replaces the Camera app shortcut with it. This extension must show the camera view immediately after the user interacts with it, ensuring a seamless experience for users. These extensions also don't require Face ID or Touch ID authentication. However, they cannot show the user's photo library without authentication and cannot interact with the network or access other parts of the system.
What new customization options does iOS 18 introduce for the iPhone's Home Screen and Lock Screen?
iOS 18 introduces several new customization options for the iPhone's Home Screen and Lock Screen. These include:
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More Flexible Home Screen Layout: App icons can now be arranged more freely on the Home Screen. This includes the ability to create blank spaces, rows, and columns between app icons. While app icons will still adhere to an invisible grid to maintain some uniformity, this new system offers a lot more flexibility than previous iOS versions.
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Customizable Lock Screen: Users can now customize the buttons at the bottom of the Lock Screen. This means you can replace the flashlight and camera buttons with any other controls you want, including an option to open any app.
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Widgets and App Icons on Lock Screen: iOS 18 allows for the inclusion of app icons and widgets on the Lock Screen, enhancing accessibility and efficiency2. Users can select specific app icons to display on the Lock Screen for quick access to frequently used applications. Widgets can also be placed on the Lock Screen, allowing users to view important information or perform quick actions directly from this screen.
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Blank Rows and Columns: iOS 18 gives users the ability to strategically create blank rows and columns on their Home Screens5. These can be utilized to separate clusters of app icons or widgets, resulting in a more organized and visually appealing home screen layout.
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Icon-Free Columns: This feature allows users to create columns on their home screens devoid of any app icons5. This update allows for a cleaner and more organized layout, whether for aesthetic purposes or categorizing apps.
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Personalized Lock Screens: iOS 18 introduces personalized lock screen choices, enabling users to create a unique and efficient interface that aligns with their individual preferences and usage patterns5.
These enhancements aim to streamline user interactions with their devices and maximize the utility of the home and lock screens.