Tim Hardwick
Apple has restored a Lock screen feature in iOS 18.2 that was unceremoniously removed from its iPhone OS two years ago, leaving many users wondering why it was removed in the first place.
The feature in question is the on-screen volume control slider in the media player interface on the Lock screen. Until 2022, the volume slider was a familiar presence on the Lock screen when playing media. However, when Apple released iOS 16, it removed the control without explaining why.
Thankfully, Apple has brought the control back as an option in iOS 18.2. If you've updated your device, you'll find a toggle in Settings ➝ Accessibility ➝ Audio & Video labeled Always Show Volume Control. Turn the toggle on, and you'll be able to control the volume from the lock screen without having to unlock your iPhone or use the physical volume buttons.
Elsewhere in iOS 18.2, assuming you have a compatible device, you'll find a number of Apple Intelligence features, including Image Playground and Genmoji. Be sure to check out our full guide for full details on what's included.
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