Reported by MacRumors, “multiple sources familiar with the matter” indicated that Apple has been testing a revamped Control Center design geared towards easier layout customization. However, MacRumors advises caution, noting, “we have not confirmed if this change has been finalized for the update.”
If incorporated, this update could introduce a drag-and-drop mechanism allowing users to rearrange at least some of the controls directly from the Control Center. This would be analogous to the way iPhone’s home screen customization operates.
A Streamlined Configuration Process
This potential update could be a considerable departure from the current setup, which mandates navigating to the main settings screen to modify the Control Center. Presently, users can only add, remove, and reorder smaller controls like the flashlight and timer from settings. Additionally, the capability to hide or show smart home controls exists, yet the entire top portion of the Control Center remains non-customizable.
It remains uncertain whether the new system would permit full control over all icons’ layout or continue to limit predominant customization to the lower section. Nonetheless, a direct drag-and-drop system would significantly expedite and simplify the customization process compared to the current sub-menu navigation required to adjust the layout.
We are hopeful that this modification will be realized and will also include the ability to create and leave blank spaces, rows, and columns among various Control Center controls if desired. This rumored flexibility for the home screen could logically extend to the Control Center for consistency across the device.
We won’t have to wait long for confirmation, as iOS 18 is anticipated to be unveiled at WWDC 2024 on June 10. The initial beta release is also expected around this timeframe, but the final version might not be available until September, aligning with the launch of the iPhone 16 lineup.