iOS 18.4 introduces a relaxing music feature, but some questions remain unanswered
Apple has once again brought something new for its iPhone users. The latest iOS 18.4 update now includes a music feature that promises to improve focus and relaxation through Ambient Music. This feature can now be accessed directly through the Control Center and can be customized from there.
- iOS 18.4 introduces a relaxing music feature, but some questions remain unanswered
- A new way to listen without any app
- Is this an updated version of Apple’s Background Sounds?
- Impact on mental and physical health?
- But some important questions are still unanswered
- 1. Where are these music tracks coming from?
- 2. Are the artists being paid fairly?
- 3. Will there be more such features in the future?
- Ambient Music Features
A new way to listen without any app
The Ambient Music feature included in iOS 18.4 doesn’t require a separate app. When the music plays, tapping on the Dynamic Island opens a music player interface similar to Apple Music. However, there is no separate icon for it on the home screen.
Users can choose from four playlist options:
- Chill
- Sleep
- Productivity
- Wellbeing
All these options can be added to the Control Center, just like the existing Shazam icon.
Is this an updated version of Apple’s Background Sounds?
Apple hasn’t presented this feature as a standalone app. Instead, it can be considered an extended version of the existing Background Sounds feature, which earlier included white noise, ocean waves, and forest ambience.
This feature may be especially useful for people who want to focus while working or need a peaceful environment.
Impact on mental and physical health?
This kind of music is not just about entertainment. As per the Royal College of Psychiatrists, such sounds can help people to reduce stress and even ease their physical pain.
But some important questions are still unanswered
1. Where are these music tracks coming from?
One big question is, who created this music and where did it come from? Are these playlists taken from curated collections already available on Apple Music or are they exclusive tracks?
There’s no official confirmation, but with the rise of AI-generated music, there’s also a concern that some of these tracks might be automated. If that happens, this feature may not appeal to many music lovers.
2. Are the artists being paid fairly?
If these playlists are made using existing Apple Music tracks and handpicked by human curators, it is very important to know whether the artists are being fairly paid for their work or not.
Apple Music usually pays around $0.01 per stream, which is not much. So, even if the tracks are played a lot, the artists may earn very little.
3. Will there be more such features in the future?
Apple has launched several wellness related features in recent years, like the Journal app. Maybe the focus will shift to visual relaxation too, like peaceful screen color profiles or virtual zen environments.
Or in the future, more niche music buttons may appear in the Control Center – like a shortcut just for Techno lovers.
Ambient Music Features
| Feature Name | Ambient Music |
| Available in | Control Center (in iOS 18.4) |
| Playlist Types | Chill, Sleep, Productivity, Wellbeing |
| Separate App? | No |
| Dynamic Island Support | Yes |
| AirPlay Support | Yes |
| Purpose | To improve focus, calm, and productivity |
The Ambient Music feature in iOS 18.4 is an interesting and relaxing update by Apple, especially for users who like to focus or relax through music. However, it will be interesting to see where the music is coming from and are artists are getting any benefit.
ALSO READ: Samsung Announces Its Galaxy Tab S10 FE Series: Ready To Rival With Apple’s iPad
