How to Enable Game Mode on iPhone in iOS 18

Apple finally takes action with Game Mode in iOS 18. Yes, this is the first time that Apple added a dedicated mode that aims to maintain high frame rates and reduce audio latency for an unmatched gaming experience on an iPhone. Unarguably, Game Mode is gonna be one of the best iOS 18 features for gaming enthusiasts. Now that you can install the stable version of iOS 18, you must check out this brand-new addition that can take your gaming to a whole new level. Read on to learn how to enable Game Mode in iOS 18.

Use Game Mode on iPhone in iOS 18

The best thing about the Game Mode on iOS 18 is that it triggers automatically whenever you launch a game on your compatible iPhones. Also, you can toggle Game Mode from the Control Center while playing a game. Here are the step-by-step instructions to turn on Game Mode on iOS 18:

• Make sure you’ve installed iOS 18 on your iPhone (here’s the complete iOS 18 installation guide).
• Now, launch a game on your iPhone.
• As soon as you start the game, you should see “Game Mode On” at the top of the screen.

• If you wish to disable Game Mode, simply tap on the pop-up alert and you’ll see “Game Mode Off“.
• You can also enable or disable Game Mode from the Control Center while playing a game. To do this, simply swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen and tap the name of the game from the top.

• This will show you a Game Mode toggle which you can turn on/off according to your preferences.

What Does iOS 18 Game Mode do?

The Game Mode on iOS minimizes background activity on your iPhone so you can enjoy a smoother gaming experience and more consistent frame rates. Your iPhone chip will prioritize the game you’re playing to deliver the best possible experience. Although the Game Mode is turned on for all games, it’s especially useful during demanding titles like Genshin Impact and Return to Money Island. With the Game Mode turned on, the AAA titles will hit more immersive than ever.

Also, Game Mode doubles up 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 bells and whistles to your gameplay. Everything combined, Game Mode should deliver a smoother and more immersive gaming experience on your compatible iPhones.

Since Game Mode will reduce the background activity, some processes may take longer to complete. Also, it might take up a little more battery life on your iPhone.

iPhones Compatible with Game Mode

There are no specific hardware requirements for using Game Mode. Any iPhone that’s supported by iOS 18 will get this feature. Check out the complete list below:

• iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max 
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd gen)
• iPhone 12, 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (3rd gen)
• 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

Minimize Distractions During Gaming

There can be instances when you’re in the mood for some serious gaming. For times when you wish to play without any distractions like even calls and messages, you can set up a Focus Mode on your iPhone. You can also make use of the new Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode in iOS 18. These Focus modes will minimize distractions so you can put your heart and soul into gaming. You can also create a list of contacts and apps you wish to receive notifications from.

That’s how you can use Game Mode on iPhone in iOS 18. Have you tried this feature? Are you looking forward to gaming with this new iOS 18 feature? Don’t forget to drop your views in the comments below.