Apple fans, the wait is over! On September 16th, iOS 18 is officially being released, bringing a host of exciting new features to your iPhone. Whether you’re looking for improvements in everyday functionality or cutting-edge tools, iOS 18 is packed with everything you need to stay ahead of the curve. But before you rush to update, there’s a lot to unpack. Here’s everything you should know about iOS 18 and what it brings to your device.
Compatible Devices for iOS 18
If you’re eager to get your hands on iOS 18, you might want to check if your iPhone is compatible. Unfortunately, not all older models will be able to make the leap to Apple’s latest and greatest. The iPhones that will support iOS 18 include the iPhone 15 and 16 series, including the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPads and Macs that use the M1 chip or later.
If you’re still holding onto an iPhone 8 or iPhone X, you won’t be able to upgrade to this version. But don’t worry—your device will still function, just without all the cool new tricks iOS 18 has up its sleeve(Apple)
New Features in iOS 18
1. Apple Intelligence Perhaps the most buzzed-about feature in iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, Apple’s groundbreaking AI tool. While this feature won’t be fully available on launch, you can expect to start seeing some AI-powered updates rolling out as early as October. Initially, Apple Intelligence will only support English in the U.S., with plans to extend to other languages like French, Japanese, and Spanish in the coming year.
2. Redesigned Messages and Photos Apps Apple is spicing up your texting experience with a revamped Messages app. Now, you can bold, italicize, underline, and even strikethrough your text, making conversations feel more dynamic. Oh, and adding animations to your texts? Yep, that’s happening too.
The Photos app is also getting an overhaul, allowing you to create custom collections for easier navigation. Whether you’re grouping together pictures from your last vacation or just organizing random memes, it’ll be easier to find what you’re looking for.
3. Passwords App A long-requested feature, Passwords, is finally here. This new app consolidates all your credentials in one secure place, improving upon the current settings-based system. You’ll be able to access and manage passwords more easily, making your digital life a little less hectic.
4. Personalization of the Home Screen One of the more fun updates is the ability to customize your home screen like never before. Now, you can rearrange app icons and even tint them with colors of your choice. Plus, Apple has made it possible to increase the size of your apps, giving you a more personalized look
Other Notable Tweaks
There are tons of smaller tweaks and updates coming with iOS 18 as well. Maps, Calendar, and Safari are all getting minor usability improvements, and performance enhancements across the board should help make your phone faster and smoother.
How to Update to iOS 18
Ready to take the plunge? Here’s how to update your iPhone:
- Open Settings.
- Go to General, then Software Update.
- Click Download and Install to get started.
Make sure your phone is charged and connected to Wi-Fi to avoid any disruptions. Depending on your device, the update could take a little while, but it’s well worth the wait.
FAQs
Q: What iPhones are compatible with iOS 18?
A: iOS 18 is compatible with the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series, including the Pro and Pro Max models. Older iPhones, such as the iPhone 8 and iPhone X, won’t support the update.
Q: What are the standout features of iOS 18?
A: The highlights include Apple Intelligence, a redesigned Messages and Photos app, and a new Passwords app for easier credential management.
Q: When will Apple Intelligence be fully available?
A: Apple Intelligence will start rolling out in October, with more advanced features arriving in later updates.
In conclusion, iOS 18 offers a mix of powerful new features and subtle improvements, making it an exciting upgrade for those with compatible devices. Whether you’re diving into the AI world with Apple Intelligence or customizing your home screen to your heart’s content, iOS 18 is shaping up to be one of the most fun and functional updates yet.
