Apple is finally getting in on the action with Game Mode in iOS 18. Yes, this is the first time Apple is adding a dedicated mode that aims to maintain high frame rates and reduce audio latency for an unmatched gaming experience on an iPhone. Undoubtedly, Game Mode is going to be one of the best features of iOS 18 for gaming enthusiasts. Now that you can install the stable version of iOS 18, you need to check out this brand new addition that can take your gaming to a whole new level. Read on to know how to enable Game Mode in iOS 18.
How to Use Game Mode on iPhone in iOS 18
The great thing about Game Mode on iOS 18 is that it automatically turns on whenever you launch a game on your compatible iPhones. You can also enable Game Mode from the Control Center while you’re playing a game. Here are the step-by-step instructions to enable Game Mode on iOS 18:
- If you want to turn off game mode, just tap on the pop-up alert and you will see “Game mode disabled” .
- You can also turn Game Mode on or off from Control Center while you’re playing a game. To do so, simply swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen and tap the game name at the top.
- This will show you a game mode toggle that you can enable/disable according to your preference.
What is iOS 18 Game Mode for?
Game Mode on iOS minimizes background activity on your iPhone so you can enjoy smoother gameplay and more consistent frame rates. Your iPhone’s chipset will prioritize the game you’re playing to deliver the best possible experience. While Game Mode is enabled for all games, it’s especially useful during demanding titles like Genshin Impact and Return to Money Island. With Game Mode enabled, AAA titles will be more immersive than ever.
Additionally, Game Mode doubles the Bluetooth polling rate with wireless controllers to improve in-game responsiveness. That’s not all. It also reduces audio latency with AirPods Pro 2 or later, adding more functionality to your gameplay. All of this combined, Game Mode should deliver a smoother, more immersive gaming experience on your compatible iPhones.
Because Game Mode reduces background activity, some processes may take longer to run. Plus, it may drain your iPhone’s battery a bit.
iPhones compatible with Game Mode
There are no specific hardware requirements to use Game Mode. Any iPhone that supports iOS 18 will benefit from this feature. Check out the full list below:
- iPhone XR, XS and XS Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone 12, 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
Reduce distractions while gaming
There may be times when you want to get serious about gaming. For those times when you want to play without any distractions, like calls and messages, you can set up a Focus mode on your iPhone. You can also use the new Minimize Interruptions Focus mode in iOS 18. These Focus modes will minimize distractions so you can focus on your game. You can also create a list of contacts and apps that you want to receive notifications from.
This is how you can use Game Mode on iPhone in iOS 18. Have you tried this feature? Are you excited to play with this new feature of iOS 18? Don’t forget to leave your feedback in the comments below.
Does iOS 17 have a game mode?
No, iOS 17 does not have Game Mode. For the first time, Apple has added a dedicated Game Mode in the new iOS 18. So, for now, only iOS 18 has Game Mode.
How to access game mode on iPhone?
If your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS 18, Game Mode should be enabled automatically every time you start a game.
