Changes to Live Activities in iOS 18
What You Need to Know
August 2024
PC Boss
What’s Changing with Live Activities?
Live Activities, a feature first introduced in iOS 16, allows users to see real-time updates from their apps directly on their lock screens or Dynamic Island. This functionality is especially useful for tracking deliveries, rides, and other time-sensitive information.
In iOS 18, Live Activities will no longer be able to update as frequently as they did in iOS 17 and earlier. Previously, these activities could refresh every second. However, with iOS 18, the update interval has been extended to between 5 and 15 seconds.
According to Apple, this adjustment is intended to reduce the wear on device storage. Live Activities require frequent writes to the device’s NAND storage, which can cause excessive wear over time. By extending the update interval, Apple aims to mitigate potential long-term impacts on storage health, especially now that Live Activities will sync with Apple Watch via iOS 18 and watchOS 11.
Prior to iOS 18, users enjoyed near real-time updates from apps like Uber and Lyft, which relied on frequent Live Activity updates to provide timely information. The new update frequency is a shift away from this model, aligning more closely with Apple's intended use of Live Activities for periodic rather than real-time updates.
Impact on Different Apps
Clock Features: Apps that display a countdown or timer, such as Uber or Lyft, are likely to be less affected by this change. These apps typically use a single update to provide the estimated arrival time, with the countdown managed internally rather than through constant Live Activity updates.
Real-Time Experiences: The update may have a more noticeable impact on apps that rely on continuous updates, such as live sports trackers or real-time data feeds. Users of these apps may find that the delay in update frequency affects their experience.
Intentional Design: Apple has clarified that Live Activities were never designed to provide “real-time experiences” and that the previous implementation was a “hole in the API.” This change aims to address these design limitations by aligning the feature’s functionality with its intended use.
Top 10 Q/A About Live Activities in iOS 18
What is the new update frequency for Live Activities in iOS 18?
Live Activities will update every 5 to 15 seconds, compared to the previous every-second updates.
Why is Apple making this change?
The change aims to reduce wear on device storage caused by frequent writes, particularly with the added syncing to Apple Watch.
How does this affect apps with clock features?
Apps like Uber and Lyft, which use Live Activities for countdowns or timers, should be minimally affected as they rely on a single update for the initial information.
Will real-time data apps be impacted?
Yes, apps that require continuous updates, such as live sports trackers, may experience delays due to the new update frequency.
Why were Live Activities initially allowed to update every second?
The previous implementation was not aligned with Apple’s intended use of Live Activities, leading to excessive wear on storage.
How will the change affect my device’s performance?
The update aims to improve device longevity by reducing frequent writes to storage, potentially enhancing overall performance in the long run.
What are “real-time experiences” in this context?
Real-time experiences refer to continuous, up-to-the-second updates that were previously supported but are now restricted to align with the feature’s intended use.
Will there be any changes to how Live Activities sync with Apple Watch?
The syncing process will remain, but the reduced update frequency will apply to both iOS devices and Apple Watch.
How can I manage my Live Activities to minimize impact?
Consider using apps that do not rely on continuous updates for critical information. Apps with countdown or timer features will be less affected.
When will this change take effect?
The new update frequency will be implemented with the release of iOS 18, which is expected later this year.
BOSS LEVEL TIP: Optimize Your Live Activities Usage
To ensure you get the most out of Live Activities while minimizing potential impacts, be selective about the apps you use with this feature. Opt for apps that offer value without relying on constant updates. Additionally, regularly check for updates and adjust your app settings to align with the new update frequencies. Staying informed and proactive can help you maintain a smooth and efficient user experience with iOS 18.
Apple’s latest update, iOS 18, introduces a significant change to how Live Activities function, particularly in terms of update frequency. This shift may affect how certain apps provide real-time information and could influence user experiences across iOS devices. Here’s an in-depth look at the upcoming changes, their implications, and how they compare to previous versions.