Introduced with the iPhone 6s, 3D Touch detects varying levels of pressure from your fingertip, enabling previews, shortcuts, and more intuitive interactions. With iOS 10, Apple has significantly expanded its capabilities, transforming it into a must-have tool for efficient iPhone use. As seasoned iOS experts, we've explored these enhancements extensively—here are six standout ways to leverage 3D Touch.
From home screen previews to streamlined controls, these features boost productivity for power users.
3D Touch an app icon on your home screen for instant content previews without launching the app. For instance, 3D Touch the News icon to see headlines via its widget, the Weather app for current conditions, or the Phone icon for favorite contacts.
Tap Add Widget to save it for quick access from the lock screen or home screen (swipe left).
Note: Currently limited to Apple's native apps, but expect third-party support as developers adopt these APIs.
On the lock screen or Notification Center, 3D Touch any notification to preview and interact. For messages, view conversation history and reply directly via the keyboard.
This expands over time with app updates, while quick actions like View Profile on Instagram remain available.
Finally, effortlessly clear everything: In Notification Center, 3D Touch the X button and select Clear All Notifications. A standard tap still clears individual ones.
In the redesigned Control Center (swipe up), 3D Touch the Flashlight icon to choose low, medium, or high brightness. Medium is default, but high delivers maximum illumination when needed.
Skip manual entry: 3D Touch the Timer in Control Center for presets like 1 minute, 5 minutes, 20 minutes, or 1 hour. Tap to start instantly.
Ditch the three-dot menu—3D Touch any song for options like add to library/playlist, play next/later, create radio station, share, or like/dislike. Includes album art preview.
Also see: How to turn Apple Maps into an incredible tool with its excellent 3D Touch shortcuts
