This page covers everything you can do with the iOS Control Center, from how to access, add or remove apps, organize, and use the touch and hold functionality.
The Apple iPhone and iPad come equipped with a great quick-access function called the Control Center. This built-in options lets you quickly access apps and device functions, such as the flashlight or even Shazam.
Speed is of the essence when you have an idea, hear a song, or get stuck in the dark – you want to act quickly! The Control Center also works from ANY screen or if you’re in the middle of a game, video stream, or using an app.
Continue with our guide to learn how to access the Control Center, how to add or remove apps to it, organize the control center, and learn what the long press function does. There are a couple quick steps to take and then you’re all set!
1) How to Access the Control Center
The Control Center is the quick access function that you’re probably already familiar with:
Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen.
This is the Control Center and it comes preloaded with apps.
It’s this location where you can add time-sensitive apps. This is because Control Center gives you instant access from any app or screen with just a swipe.
2) How to Add Apps
You can add a number of apps (but not every app) to the Control Center. Here’s the steps to see available apps and to get them added if desired:
- From your device, navigate to and open Settings.
- Tap Control Center.
- Make sure the Access Within Apps toggle is selected. This is so you can open from any in-progress app.
- Scroll down to the More Controls section.
- Tap the Plus Sign next to an App.
- For example – look at the image of the Notes app (the different logo appears next to the name), or Shazam shows up as Music Recognition.
Look how Notes is now added to the Control Center!
3) How to Remove Apps
You can remove apps from the Control Center to optimize space:
- From your device, navigate to and open Settings.
- Tap Control Center.
- Scroll down to the Included Controls section.
- Tap the red Minus Sign next to an App. This removes the app from the Control Center.
4) How to Use Touch and Hold
- Once you’ve got an item added to the Control Center, you can press and hold down the icon.
- This will open an additional Control Center screen with expanded details.
- Each app will have different expanded options.
- For example, tap and hold down the Flashlight icon and you’ll see brightness options.
5) How to Arrange Apps in the Control Center
You can organize the icons in the Control Center after apps have been added:
- From your device, navigate to and open Settings.
- Tap Control Center.
- Scroll down to the Included Controls section.
- Touch and hold the gray lines icon and drag the apps (up or down) in the order that you want.
