Apple's Latest Operating System, iOS 18, Brings New Features to Discover

The latest version of Apple's iOS operating system, iOS 18, was released by the company. It was first unveiled during WWDC 2024 in June and began to be rolled out to iPhones on Sept. 16.

The latest iOS update, version 18, can be considered a major change as it brings significant improvements in design, functionality, and user experience.

The iPhone 15 Pros and the new iPhone 16 models come equipped with artificial intelligence features that are not available on other iPhones. I will guide you through some of the essential iOS 18 features that you should be aware of.

Which iPhones will get the iOS 18 update?

It is crucial to determine if your iPhone will receive the latest iOS update prior to learning about its features. The following is a list of iPhones that are eligible for the iOS 18 update.

• iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd gen), SE (3rd gen)
• iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max

8 iOS 18 features everyone should know about

IOS 18 is a major update with numerous enhancements and novel features. While I won't go into detail about each one, here are eight of my favorites. I've been utilizing some of them for a while now, as I was part of the beta program and received early access.

1. Home Screen customizations

With the release of iOS 18, Apple has introduced new features that allow you to personalize your iPhone's Home Screen.

Android users can now freely place app icons and widgets anywhere within the Home Screen grid, giving them more control over their device's layout. This feature has been a point of pride for Android users, who have long boasted about it to iPhone users. In a way, it makes the iPhone feel more personalized.

The Home Screen on Apple allows you to customize the color of your apps and widgets, switch between light and dark mode, and adjust the icons accordingly if the app has a dark mode icon available.

2. The most significant Photos redesign

The updated Photos app simplifies the process of discovering and revisiting cherished memories through its sleek, organized interface. The new collections feature, such as Recent Days, People & Pets, and Trips, utilizes on-device intelligence to automatically categorize your photos, enabling you to spend less time searching and more time reliving your memories. Additionally, you can customize your experience by selecting a personalized layout that emphasizes your favorite collections and pins them for easy access.

3. Locking and hiding apps

You can conceal certain apps on your iPhone with iOS 18 by locking them with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, preventing others from accessing them without your authentication. Additionally, you can utilize the hiding feature for added security.

If you conceal an application, it will not show up in your app collection or search outcomes. You won't receive any alerts from the app unless you open the secret folder from the app library. The only way to access this folder is through Face ID, Touch ID, or a password.

4. Upgraded Messages app

The Messages app from Apple now includes text effects for specific words, such as big, small, shake, nod, explode, ripple, bloom, and jitter. Additionally, the app features new formatting options similar to those found in Google Docs or Microsoft Word.

The Tapback system in the Messages app has been upgraded, allowing for a broader range of emojis and stickers to react to messages with, beyond the previously approved ones from Apple. Additionally, a new feature has been added called scheduling, enabling users to schedule messages for later delivery.

5. Siri is getting an AI boost

Apple's virtual assistant, Siri, has been limited in its capabilities, mainly directing users to Apple's website or conducting web searches for most queries. However, with the upcoming release of iOS 18, Siri is set to receive a significant AI upgrade. The new Siri will be capable of handling more complex questions and will have the ability to remember what users say, similar to ChatGPT.

Siri will be able to see what's on your screen and help with any questions you have, including finding specific messages, pictures, or files. For instance, you could ask Siri to locate an email from your colleague about a project from last month or display a recipe for your favorite pasta dish.

The new Siri won’t be included in the initial release of iOS 18. Apple states that the upgrade is still under development and will likely be released either towards the end of the year or at the beginning of 2025.

6. Control Center changes

The Control Center now features a new multipage layout and a Controls Gallery, allowing third-party developers to add their own widgets. You can also replace the flashlight and camera icons on the lock screen with the new controls.

Apple has unveiled a new API that enables third-party apps to integrate with the updated Control Center. The Ford app is one such example, as it utilizes this API to allow users to control their vehicles from the Control Center, including starting the engine, opening the trunk, and more.

7. RCS (rich communication service) support

If most of your friends and family use iPhones, you won't fully benefit from RCS as it is intended to enhance texting between iPhone and Android devices.

The new version of messaging is an improvement over SMS/MMS, with features such as typing indicators, delivery and read receipts, higher-quality photos and videos, and the ability to text over Wi-Fi or mobile data. Additionally, it simplifies group chat management, including the option to exit conversations.

8. iPhone mirroring

Apple has simplified the process of working with iPhones and Macs with the introduction of iOS 18. The new iPhone Mirroring feature allows you to control your iPhone from your Mac by displaying your iPhone's screen on your Mac. You can use your Mac's mouse, keyboard, and trackpad to manage iPhone apps, check notifications, and more, effectively creating a digital version of your iPhone on your Mac.

What about all the AI features?

The majority of AI features under Apple Intelligence will not be accessible with the initial release of iOS 18. These features will be gradually rolled out in future iOS 18 updates, potentially at the end of this year or early 2025. However, the features I previously mentioned will be available immediately after installing the iOS 18 update, with the exception of the upgraded Siri.

How to install iOS 18 update?

• Tap on Settings
• Tap on General
• Tap on Software Update
• If an update is available, it will give you the option to download and install.

You can enable automatic updates for your phone by going to the Software Update screen, clicking on "Automatic Updates," and turning on the desired services.

Kurt’s key takeaway

The upcoming iOS 18 update brings numerous enhancements to your iPhone, including personalization options and new features like iPhone Mirroring for seamless integration with other Apple devices. The Messages app now offers exciting effects to elevate your texting experience. However, it's a bit disheartening that the Apple Intelligence features, which were highly anticipated since WWDC, will not be included in the initial release.

What iOS 18 feature are you most likely to use the most? Share your thoughts with us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

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