Apple is set to release the highly anticipated iOS 18 operating system for eligible iPhone models today, September 16, 2024. While the new iPhone 16 series, which comes preloaded with iOS 18, will be available starting September 20, owners of older-generation iPhones can begin updating their devices from today.
Unveiled earlier this year at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, iOS 18 brings a host of new features and tools designed to enhance the user experience. Among the standout updates is Apple Intelligence, a cutting-edge feature that is expected to see a stable release next month. Here’s everything we know about iOS 18 so far.
iOS 18 Features
1. Enhanced Home Screen Customization
iOS 18 introduces more flexibility in customizing the Home Screen. Users can now rearrange apps and widgets more freely, apply unique color themes, and even change app icons specifically for dark mode. This allows iPhone owners to add a personalized touch to their device’s interface.
2. Revamped Control Center
The Control Center has received a major redesign. A new swipe-up gesture gives users quick access to controls for connected smart devices, which can now be adjusted from the lock screen. The addition of an Action Button allows for faster access to these settings, and users can rearrange control tiles to suit their preferences, making the Control Center more user-friendly.
3. App Lock for Enhanced Privacy
One of the most anticipated features of iOS 18 is the App Lock, which allows users to lock individual apps and hide them in a secure folder. This added layer of security ensures that sensitive apps remain private, offering greater protection for personal information.
4. Messages App Updates
The Messages app has undergone several upgrades. iOS 18 adds broader compatibility with other messaging platforms through support for RCS (Rich Communication Services). New features like emoji and sticker reactions, scheduled message sending, dynamic text effects, and advanced text formatting are also introduced. For users with iPhone 14 and newer models, satellite messaging will now be available, enabling communication even in remote areas.
5. Revamped Mail App
iOS 18 enhances the Mail app by introducing advanced sorting capabilities. Emails will now be automatically categorized into folders like Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions, making inbox management more efficient. This feature will roll out in a future update, but it’s one of the major upgrades coming to the app.
6. Game Mode for iPhones
For gamers, iOS 18 brings the Game Mode feature from Macs to iPhones. This allows users to optimize the performance of their device based on game requirements, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Expect smoother gameplay and better performance, especially on newer iPhone models.
7. Redesigned Photos App
The Photos app has received a complete overhaul, with smart features that automatically curate collections and streamline the photo organization process. This update aims to make it easier for users to access memories and manage their photo libraries more efficiently.
8. Siri and Audio Upgrades
In iOS 18, Siri is more intuitive than ever, introducing gesture-based interactions such as nodding to confirm commands. This allows for more hands-free functionality, ideal for users on the go. Additionally, voice isolation for AirPods Pro improves call clarity, and personalized spatial audio for gaming will be introduced later this year, with *Need for Speed Mobile* being the first game to support this feature.
One of the most exciting additions to iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, which uses advanced AI to enhance user experience. However, the full rollout of Apple Intelligence won’t happen until iOS 18.1, which is expected next month. Initially, Apple Intelligence features will be exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, with broader support on newer devices like the iPhone 16 series.
Apple has announced that these AI-powered tools will first be available on devices with Siri set to US English. By the end of this year, localized English versions for Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK will also be supported. In 2024, additional languages such as Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish will be added.
Eligible iPhone Models for iOS 18
If you own any of the following iPhone models, you’ll be able to download and install iOS 18:
– iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
– iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
– iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
– iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
– iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
– iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR
– iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
How to Check, Download, and Install iOS 18:
Here’s how to check for the update and install iOS 18:
1. Go to Settings on your iPhone.
2. Tap on General, then navigate to the ‘Software Update’ section.
3. If the update is available, you will see the option to “Download and Install”. Tap to begin the process.
4. Once the download is complete, you can choose to Install immediately, set it for later, or tap ‘Remind Me Later.’
5. If prompted, enter your passcode to confirm the installation.
iOS 18 Release Time and Date in India:
While the exact release time has not been confirmed, based on previous iOS rollouts, the iOS 18 update is expected to start rolling out around 10:30 PM IST. Additionally, the iPhone 16 series, featuring iOS 18 out of the box, will be available in India starting September 20.