iOS 18.4 Update Brings Free Ambient Music Controls to iPhone Users
Apple is introducing a new Ambient Music feature in iOS 18.4, providing built-in background music without requiring an Apple Music subscription. The feature will be accessible directly through the iPhone's Control Center.
iOS ambient music control interface
How to Access Ambient Music in iOS 18.4:
- Open Control Center
- Tap the plus sign in the top-left corner
- Select "Add a Control"
- Scroll to Ambient Music section
- Choose your preferred controls
The feature offers four main themes with multiple playlist options:
Sleep Theme:
- Sleep Sounds
- Bedtime Beats
- Sound Bath
- Piano Sleep
Chill Theme:
- Piano Chill
- Ambient Chill
- Lo-Fi Jazz
- Pure Chill
Productivity Theme:
- BEATstrumentals
- Binaural Frequencies
- Pure Focus
- Classical Concentration
Wellbeing Theme:
- Pure Meditation
- Spa
- Beats & Breath
- Pure Calm
Key Features:
- On-screen music controls
- Dynamic Island integration (on newer iPhones)
- No Apple Music subscription required
- Free to use
- No additional app needed
The iOS 18.4 update also brings lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio support for AirPods Max with USB-C port. To install the update when available, go to Settings > General > Software Update.