Apple’s iOS 18 update has brought some impressive features to the iPhone, improving the overall user experience with enhancements like interactive widgets, better privacy settings, and a revamped Lock Screen. However, not all changes have been well-received. While many features are welcomed with open arms, there are still a few that have left users frustrated. Here are 3 iOS 18 features that many find annoying.

1. Persistent Banner Notifications

One of the more annoying changes in iOS 18 is the persistent banner notifications. While banner notifications are generally helpful, the new update has made them more aggressive. Instead of disappearing after a few seconds, some notifications now remain on the screen until you manually dismiss them. This can be especially bothersome when you’re in the middle of an important task, as the banner blocks part of your view and forces you to take action to clear it.

For example, if you receive a message or reminder, it might stay on your screen for an extended period, interfering with what you’re doing. While this is intended to help users never miss an important notification, it’s easy to see how it can become frustrating, especially for those who like to work without constant interruptions.

Fortunately, this feature can be adjusted in Settings. You can disable persistent banners for certain apps or even choose to turn off banner notifications altogether. However, the fact that this feature is enabled by default leaves many users wishing for a more balanced approach.

2. Lock Screen Widgets Can Be Cluttered

iOS 18 introduced the ability to customize your Lock Screen, including adding widgets for quick access to information like weather updates, calendar events, or reminders. While the feature adds some useful functionality, it can also get cluttered quickly.

For those who want a simple, clean Lock Screen, the new widgets can make things feel crowded and overwhelming. Depending on how many widgets you add, the Lock Screen might become difficult to read or glance at quickly. Adding multiple widgets can also slow down the unlocking process, especially if you use face or fingerprint recognition.

While customization is great, users may find themselves toggling between different widget layouts just to avoid a visually overwhelming Lock Screen. The feature works well for those who like a detailed overview of their day, but for those who prefer simplicity, the widgets may feel more like a nuisance than a benefit.

3. Safari Tabs Are Harder to Manage

Safari has seen some great updates in iOS 18, but the tab management is one area that many users have found confusing and frustrating. With the introduction of tab groups and a revamped design, managing multiple open tabs has become more complex than it needs to be.

Previously, users could simply swipe through open tabs or use the “Close All Tabs” button to quickly manage their browsing. Now, with the new tab groups feature, users are forced to organize their tabs into categories. While this can be useful for power users who regularly switch between different tasks, it adds an extra layer of complexity that many people simply don’t need.

For casual users, trying to navigate between tab groups, switching between open pages, and managing multiple open tabs feels cumbersome. The new tab grouping system isn’t always intuitive, especially for those who are used to the simplicity of the previous setup. It can be difficult to quickly locate the right tab, which defeats the purpose of having a fast and efficient browser.

Conclusion

While iOS 18 brings a lot of positive changes, there are a few features that have proven to be more annoying than helpful. Persistent banner notifications, the cluttered Lock Screen widgets, and difficult tab management in Safari all leave users frustrated at times. These features may not be dealbreakers for everyone, but for those who value simplicity and efficiency, they can feel like unnecessary obstacles.

Fortunately, most of these issues can be addressed through settings adjustments or personal preferences. Apple will likely continue to refine these features in future updates, but for now, users may want to keep an eye on these annoyances and decide how best to adapt their devices for a smoother experience.