How to customize Control Center on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for customizing Control Center on iPhone.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Customizing the Control Center on your iPhone allows you to tailor quick access to your most-used features and settings. This can be done through the Settings app, enabling you to add or remove controls based on your preferences.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before customizing the Control Center on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •iPhone running iOS 11 or later (iOS 14, 15, and 16 are also applicable).
  • •Access to the Settings app on your iPhone.
  • •No restrictions enabled on your device that might prevent customization.
  • •Ensure your device is updated to the latest iOS version for optimal functionality.

Method 1: Customizing Control Center via Settings

This method is the primary way to customize your Control Center and is applicable for all iPhones running iOS 11 and later.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone. You can find it on your home screen, represented by a gear icon.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Control Center'. This will open the customization options.
  • •Step 3: Under 'More Controls', you will see a list of available controls. Tap the green '+' icon next to any control you want to add to your Control Center.
  • •Step 4: To remove a control, tap the red '-' icon next to the control you wish to remove, then tap 'Remove'.
  • •Step 5: To rearrange controls, press and hold the three horizontal lines next to a control and drag it to your desired position.
  • •Step 6: Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen (iPhone X and later) or swipe up from the bottom (iPhone 8 and earlier) to access the Control Center and verify your changes.

For iOS 14 and Later

iOS 14 introduced some additional features for Control Center customization.
  • •iOS 14 allows you to add 'Hearing' and 'Screen Recording' directly to the Control Center.
  • •You can also adjust the volume and brightness settings more granularly by long-pressing the respective icons.

For iOS 15 and Later

iOS 15 further enhanced the Control Center experience.
  • •New features include 'Focus Mode' which can be added to the Control Center for quick access.
  • •You can also customize the 'Do Not Disturb' settings directly from the Control Center.

Method 2: Using AssistiveTouch for Control Center Access

If you have difficulty accessing the Control Center through standard methods, you can use AssistiveTouch as an alternative.
  • •Step 1: Go to 'Settings' > 'Accessibility'.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Touch', then select 'AssistiveTouch'.
  • •Step 3: Toggle 'AssistiveTouch' on. A floating button will appear on your screen.
  • •Step 4: Tap the floating button, then tap 'Control Center' to access your customized settings.
  • •Step 5: You can customize the AssistiveTouch menu to include Control Center for quicker access.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while customizing the Control Center, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Control Center not responding' - Solution: Restart your iPhone by holding the power button and sliding to power off, then turn it back on.
  • •Issue: 'Controls not appearing' - Fix: Ensure that your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version by going to 'Settings' > 'General' > 'Software Update'.
  • •Problem: 'Cannot remove controls' - Workaround: Check if any restrictions are enabled under 'Settings' > 'Screen Time' > 'Content & Privacy Restrictions'.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Control Center experience with these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: There are no direct keyboard shortcuts for Control Center, but using AssistiveTouch can create a custom shortcut.
  • •Hidden feature: Long-press on the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth icon to access more settings quickly.
  • •Customization: Consider adding 'Low Power Mode' and 'Screen Recording' for quick toggles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best customization experience, regularly review and adjust your Control Center settings based on your changing needs.