In November, Bloomberg reported that Apple paused work on new features for iOS 18 for a week. This pause occurred after the completion of the “first milestone” build of iOS 18. Typically, Apple moves immediately to the second milestone, but this year, the pause aimed to address early bugs and issues on the platform.
iOS 18 Introduction and Release Date
This temporary pause is not expected to have a significant impact on the new features or release date of iOS 18. Apple aims to build the new system on the most robust foundations possible. The introduction of iOS 18 will take place at WWDC 2024 on June 10. The first beta version will be available immediately after Apple’s keynote. A public beta version will be released in July 2024, with the general release planned for September.
Compatibility
As always, there is great interest in which devices will be compatible with the new iOS version. Apple has announced that the devices compatible with iOS 17 will also be compatible with iOS 18. These devices include:
- iPhone 15 Series
- iPhone 14 Series
- iPhone 13 Series
- iPhone 12 Series
- iPhone 11 Series
- iPhone XS and XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
Key New Features in iOS 18
Apple will introduce a range of new features and improvements with iOS 18. Here are some of the key new features:
- Enhanced Siri: Siri will become even smarter using large language model technology.
- AI Integration for Messages: The ability to summarize messages, notifications, and Safari pages.
- AI for Music: Automatically creating playlists based on user preferences.
- AI for iWork Apps: AI integration to assist users in creating new documents.
- AI for Photos: The ability to organize or remove people and objects in photos.
- New Emoji Creation: Automatically creating new emoji icons based on typed words.
- New Customization Options for the Home Screen: Features allowing users to freely place app icons and change their colors.
- Apple Maps Updates: New features allowing users to create their own custom routes.
- Revamped Settings App: A new settings menu with more powerful search capabilities.
- Control Center Redesign: Updates to the music widget and improved HomeKit integration.
- Calendar and Reminders Integration: Reminders appearing in the calendar.
- New Features for the Health App: More detailed management of health data such as blood pressure.
- Improved Calculator App: New features and compatibility for iPad use.
- Apple Music Innovations: Automation of song transitions based on user preferences.
In addition, Apple announced in October that RCS support would be added to iPhones in 2024. RCS will replace SMS and MMS, improving messaging features between iPhone and Android users.
iOS 18 aims to provide Apple users with a smarter, more integrated, and more customizable experience. These new updates will ensure users can use their devices more efficiently and enjoyably.