Apple has officially announced the new iOS 18, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 16 series during its “It’s Glowtime” event on September 9. This latest operating system introduces several innovative features aimed at enhancing user experience.
Scheduled for public release on September 16, just days ahead of the iPhone 16’s arrival on September 20, iOS 18 will be available for download outside the beta testing program. However, users should note that some features may not be fully accessible until subsequent updates, such as iOS 18.1, which is yet to receive an official release date.
The new iOS brings forth a variety of customization options for users. A significant addition is the flexible Home Screen layout that lets users organize apps freely within the grid, a feature frequently requested by former Android users. Additionally, users can enjoy new Dark and Tinted Home Screen options that modify the appearance of wallpapers and app icons.
Another notable enhancement is the redesigned Control Center, allowing for the creation of multiple customizable pages where users can arrange controls as desired, enabling dedicated spaces for specific functions like smart home controls.
First-party applications are also seeing improvements. iMessage will introduce the ability to use any emoji as a Tapback reaction along with text formatting features such as underlining and italics. The Photos app will debut a new single-page layout, and users will gain the ability to lock apps with Face ID for added security. Furthermore, a new Passwords app will be introduced to streamline password management.
The highlight of iOS 18, Apple Intelligence, packages a suite of new artificial intelligence features; however, initial access won’t come until iOS 18.1, expected later in October. This update is set to bring writing tools, suggested replies in Messages, phone call recording capabilities, and consolidated notifications for Messages and Mail.
Some AI features remain untested by users and are anticipated to debut in later updates. These include Image Playground, Genmoji for emoji creation, enhanced Siri functionalities, and on-screen awareness features. While highly anticipated, some capabilities may extend into 2025, with ChatGPT integration expected to be available by the end of 2024.
iOS 18 will be compatible with all devices that support iOS 17, ensuring that users with older phones can also benefit from the update, though not all devices will support the new AI features. The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, as well as all iPhone 16 models, will specifically have access to Apple Intelligence.
Eligible devices for the iOS 18 update include:
– iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
– iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
– iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
– iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
– iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
– iPhone XS, XS Max
– iPhone XR
– iPhone SE (second-generation)
– iPhone SE (third-generation)