In November, Bloomberg reported that Apple paused the development of new features for iOS 18 for one week. This pause occurred after the completion of the “first milestone” build of iOS 18. Typically, Apple moves directly to the second milestone, but this year’s pause aims to address early platform bugs and issues.
iOS 18 Introduction and Release Date
This temporary pause is not expected to significantly impact the new features or release date of iOS 18. Apple aims to build the new system on the most robust foundation 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 address. A public beta is set to be released in July 2024, with the general release planned for September.
Compatibility
As usual, there is significant interest in which devices the new iOS version will support. Apple has announced that 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 of iOS 18
Apple will introduce a range of new features and improvements with iOS 18. Here are the key highlights:
- Enhanced Siri: Siri will become smarter using large language model technology.
- AI Integration for Messages: The ability to summarize messages, notifications, and Safari pages.
- AI in Music: Automatic playlist creation based on user preferences.
- AI for iWork Apps: AI integration to assist users in creating new documents.
- AI for Photos: The ability to edit or remove people and objects from photos.
- New Emoji Creation: Automatic creation of new emoji icons based on typed words.
- New Home Screen Customization Options: Features allowing users to freely place app icons and change their colors.
- Apple Maps Updates: New features enabling users to create their own custom routes.
- Revamped Settings App: A new settings menu with more powerful search features.
- Control Center Redesign: Updates to the music widget and improved HomeKit integration.
- Calendar and Reminders Integration: Displaying reminders in the calendar.
- New Health App Features: More detailed management of health data such as blood pressure.
- Improved Calculator App: New features and suitability for iPad use.
- Apple Music Innovations: Automation based on user preferences during song transitions.
Additionally, 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 offer Apple users a smarter, more integrated, and more customizable experience. These new updates will enable users to use their devices more efficiently and enjoyably.