How to Customize the Action Button in iOS 18

With the release of iOS 18, Apple expanded the Action Button’s utility on supported iPhone models by integrating it directly with the redesigned Control Center gallery. Instead of limiting users to a handful of pre-selected system functions, the update allows the button to trigger dozens of individual system controls and third-party app shortcuts directly. This article explains what new customizable options are available, how the system integration works, and how to assign these new controls to the hardware button.

In iOS 17, assigning an action outside of standard presets—such as Silent Mode, Flashlight, Camera, or Focus—required building or downloading custom routines in the Shortcuts app. iOS 18 removes this friction by introducing a dedicated "Controls" category within the Action Button configuration menu.

This menu pulls directly from the newly expanded Control Center API, letting you assign granular quick-toggles with a single tap.

New Direct Action Options

By leveraging the Controls framework, the Action Button can now trigger a vast range of specific system utilities, including:

  • Utilities and Tools: Launch the Calculator, start a Stopwatch, toggle Dark Mode, open the Magnifier, or trigger the Ping My Watch feature.
  • Connectivity: Toggle Personal Hotspot, Cellular Data, or Airplane Mode.
  • Accessibility and Audio: Trigger Hearing Devices, Live Listen, or Background Sounds directly.
  • Home and Remote: Launch the Apple TV Remote or toggle specific smart home accessories configured via the Home app.
  • Third-Party App Controls: Developers can expose their own Control Center widgets, allowing the Action Button to perform specific in-app actions, like opening a third-party camera app or starting a workout in a fitness tracker, without needing a custom Shortcut.

How to Set Up the New Controls

Configuring these options is straightforward:

  1. Open Settings on a compatible iPhone (iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or iPhone 16 series).
  2. Tap Action Button.
  3. Swipe horizontally through the options until you reach Controls.
  4. Tap the selection selector below to open the Controls gallery.
  5. Browse or search for your desired action, then tap it to assign it to the button.

While the Shortcuts option remains available for advanced multi-step automations, the Controls menu makes common toggles and third-party app actions faster and more reliable to access directly from the hardware button.