Apple Notes in iOS 18: The Simple Feature That Changes Everything

Once viewed merely as a basic note-taking app—often humorously associated with celebrity apologies—Apple Notes has quietly transformed over the past few years. With the release of iOS 18, Apple added one of the most sought-after features: collapsible sections.

This seemingly small change is a major leap, bringing Notes closer to heavyweight third-party competitors while maintaining the simplicity and elegance that users love.

Why Collapsible Sections Matter So Much

After years of exploring various notes apps, one feature remained elusive: the ability to collapse sections within a note.

While many apps offered powerful formatting tools, few provided an intuitive way to hide or reveal different parts of a note. The lack of collapsibility often led to cluttered, overwhelming documents—especially when trying to manage detailed information.

For a time, some users (myself included) even turned to specialized outlining apps like OmniOutliner, not for their primary features, but solely for the ability to fold sections away neatly.

Now, with iOS 18, Apple has finally filled this gap—and done so with remarkable simplicity.

How Collapsible Sections Work in Apple Notes on iOS 18

Rather than introducing collapsible sections as a brand-new formatting element, Apple smartly enhanced existing headings and subheadings.

Here’s how it works:

• Simply create a heading or subheading in your note.
  
  

• Tap on the heading text.
  
  

• A small downward arrow appears.
  
  

• Tap the arrow, and the content under the heading collapses, hiding detailed information until you want to view it again.

This approach keeps Notes intuitive for existing users while adding a deep layer of flexibility for those who need better organization.

Real-World Uses for Collapsible Sections

Currently, I’m putting collapsible sections to use in two main areas:

1. Exercise Logs and Instruction Guides

For each day’s workout—like “Pull Day”—I maintain logs of reps, weights, and exercises. Thanks to collapsible sections, I can now include detailed instructions for each movement without cluttering the view. When I need them, a simple tap reveals everything.

2. Food Macros and Meal Tracking

I also use collapsible sections to track calories and protein for meals. Each restaurant or meal has its own heading, under which detailed nutritional data is hidden until needed. This makes navigating my food tracking notes faster and more pleasant.

These are just two examples, but the possibilities are endless: project notes, lecture outlines, event planning, travel itineraries, and beyond.

As Apple Notes evolves into a smarter tool, the need for seamless device transitions grows too. Whether you're upgrading to a new iPhone or switching between platforms, Smart Transfer is the perfect data transfer companion. I was able to transfer my data in seconds! 

Smart Transfer is a powerful third-party smart data app designed to move your files, notes, contacts, and other important data effortlessly between devices. When you decide to embrace the improved capabilities of iOS 18 and Apple Notes, Smart Transfer ensures your valuable information makes the journey with you—intact, organized, and ready to use.

With innovation like collapsible sections simplifying your notes, and Smart Transfer simplifying your transitions, managing your digital life has never been easier—or more inspiring.

A Bright Future for Everyday Productivity

The addition of collapsible sections in Apple Notes is more than just a minor update—it's a transformational shift for users who crave better organization without complexity.

By blending powerful new features with intuitive design, Apple has turned Notes into a serious productivity tool that fits naturally into daily life. And with trusted companions like Smart Transfer at your side, you can move through tech upgrades and life changes with confidence, knowing that everything you need is right where it belongs.