iOS 18

What’s next for iOS

iOS 18, Apple's highly anticipated iPhone software update for 2024, promises to be one of the most significant updates to date. Set to be unveiled at WWDC 2024 in September, this update is expected to introduce major new AI features, revamped designs, and enhanced customization options.  

Aiming for a solid foundation for these exciting new features, Apple has prioritized stability and bug fixes for this updated operating system. With compatibility expected to extend to all devices currently supported by iOS 17, iOS 18 is poised to offer an enhanced and seamless user experience for a broad range of iPhone users.

Some key features to watch out for

iOS 18 aims to introduce an array of advanced features, focusing heavily on artificial intelligence. Dubbed “Apple Intelligence,” these features range from a revamped Siri, capable of leveraging large language model technology, to AI integrations in Messages and Safari that offer advanced text completion and summarization. Apple Music will benefit from AI-generated playlists, while the iWork suite and Xcode will see enhanced AI-driven capabilities to aid developers and users alike. 

In addition, this updated iOS version will bring much-anticipated updates like RCS support, enhancing communication between iPhone and Android users with features such as read receipts and high-quality media sharing. A new Passwords app will streamline login processes across Apple devices, while significant updates to the Messages app will allow for more flexible emoji reactions and scheduled messaging. Customization is also a key focus, with new Home Screen personalization options. 

Moreover, it will introduce improvements to Apple Maps, enabling custom route creation, and a redesigned Settings app with a more intuitive interface. The Control Center will also receive an overhaul, featuring enhanced HomeKit integration and improved music controls. Although this iOS version is compatible with devices supported by iOS 17, certain AI features may require the latest iPhone models, potentially limiting their accessibility.

Enhanced communication and organization features

iOS 18 brings a highly streamlined and personalized experience with its library organization features. It automatically organizes your library by topics, such as Recent Days, Trips, and People & Pets, allowing you to easily browse through your memories. Additionally, “Pinned Collections” provide quick access to your most important albums or collections, making it incredibly convenient to revisit significant moments or essential documents without needing to dig through a messy library.

Focusing on what matters most becomes effortless through the introduction of the “Primary” category. This feature intelligently sorts time-sensitive messages and emails from friends, family, or colleagues into a single, easy-to-access section. Furthermore, messages are grouped for easier scanning, allowing you to view snippets like receipts, marketing emails, and newsletters. By streamlining your inbox, this new iOS version helps you declutter the digital noise in your life.

iMessage receives a fun and dynamic update with new text-styling options and animated effects. Beyond the traditional bold, italics, underline, and strikethrough, users can now add playful and animated effects to any letter, word, phrase, or emoji. Many of these effects are intuitively suggested as you type. Additionally, the "Send Later" feature introduces the ability to schedule messages, ensuring timely communication even when you’re off the grid.

Deserves the anticipation

Overall, iOS 18 sets the stage for a transformative user experience by integrating advanced AI capabilities, offering substantial customization improvements, and addressing long-standing user requests. The anticipated updates to apps and system functionalities demonstrate Apple’s commitment to innovation and user satisfaction. However, it's essential to note that some advanced AI functionalities might be limited to the newest iPhone models, potentially leaving older devices without access to these cutting-edge features.