How to Replace Lock Screen Flashlight in iOS 18

With the release of iOS 18, Apple allows users to fully customize the bottom shortcuts on the iPhone Lock Screen, meaning the traditional flashlight button can indeed be replaced with a third-party application shortcut. This article explains how this feature works, the options available for launching your favorite apps, and the step-by-step process to set it up.

Direct Third-Party Integration and the Shortcuts App

You can replace the flashlight control in two primary ways:

1. Native Control Center Widgets: Third-party developers can build dedicated controls for their apps using Apple’s Controls API. If an app you use has added support for iOS 18, its specific actions can be assigned directly to the Lock Screen toggle.
2. The Shortcuts App ("Open App"): For any app that does not have a native iOS 18 control widget, you can use the built-in Shortcuts tool. By selecting the "Open App" action within the Shortcuts category, you can assign any third-party app installed on your device to the Lock Screen button.

How to Replace the Flashlight on the Lock Screen

1. Wake your iPhone and unlock it using Face ID or Touch ID, but stay on the Lock Screen.
2. Press and hold the Lock Screen until the wallpaper gallery appears, then tap Customize at the bottom.
3. Select the Lock Screen preview on the left.
4. Tap the minus (–) icon located on the flashlight button in the bottom-left corner to remove it.
5. Tap the plus (+) icon that appears in the empty slot to open the controls gallery.
6. Scroll down to find the desired third-party app control. If the app is not listed, scroll to the Shortcuts section, tap Open App, and select the third-party application you want to launch.
7. Tap Done in the top-right corner to save your changes.

Once configured, pressing the customized button will instantly launch your chosen third-party application directly from the Lock Screen.