Apple’s newest software update, iOS 18, is now available for all iPhone users. The update focuses on personalization, not AI technology as some expected. Instead, Apple Intelligence features will be introduced in iOS 18.1, starting in the U.S. and then worldwide.
With iOS 18, you can customize your icons, enjoy a new Control Center, and lock apps for privacy. These changes aim to make your iPhone more personal and secure.
Key Takeaways
- iOS 18 emphasizes personalization with custom icons, a revamped Control Center, and support for locked and hidden apps.
- Apple Intelligence features will be introduced in a future iOS 18.1 update, starting in the U.S. before expanding globally.
- iOS 18 introduces new accessibility features like Vocal Shortcuts for atypical speech users and Music Haptics to sync the Taptic Engine with music rhythms.
- The update also brings gaming enhancements, including Game Mode to improve wireless controller responsiveness and AirPods Pro audio latency improvements.
- iOS 18 features updates to the Photos app, Messages, Wallet, and other core apps to provide new creative tools and productivity features.
iOS 18 Compatibility and Availability
Great news for iOS users – iOS 18 is now out for certain iPhone models. If your iPhone is running iOS 17, you can update to iOS 18. To do this, go to the Settings app, then “General,” and choose “Software Update.”
Don’t worry if you don’t see the update right away. It might take a few hours to reach all devices. When it does, your iPhone will restart and show you the new features of iOS 18.
| iOS 18 Compatibility | Release Date |
|---|---|
| Compatible with iPhone models running iOS 17 | September 16, 2024 |
While iOS 18 is widely available, some features need a newer iPhone. For example, Apple Intelligence works best on the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max, which has the A17 Pro chip.
iOS 18 brings lots of new stuff like customization, better security, and messaging updates. It also introduces Apple Intelligence. So, make sure to update your iPhone and see what iOS 18 has to offer.
Personalize Your Home Screen
iOS 18 brings new features for customizing iPhone home screens. Users can now remove app labels, change icon colors, and rearrange apps. These changes give users more control over their device’s look and organization.
Rearrange Apps and Widgets
iOS 18 lets you place app icons and widgets anywhere on the home screen. You can create empty spaces and arrange items as you like. This keeps the grid layout but adds more flexibility.
Locked and Hidden Apps
iOS 18 also lets you lock apps with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. These apps are hidden from the home screen and appear in a hidden folder. This keeps sensitive info safe.
The update also allows for a darker home screen background. This can help save battery life by using less power. The dark mode affects the wallpaper but not app icons, making it both pretty and power-friendly.
Overall, iOS 18 makes it easier than ever to personalize your iPhone.
Lock Screen Customization
iOS 18 introduces a major change to the Lock Screen, giving users more control and customization. Now, you can move app icons and widgets around on the Home Screen. This opens up new ways to make your device your own.
You can also change the size of app icons. This means you can make icons bigger without losing any apps on your Home Screen.
Swap Out Lock Screen Controls
iOS 18 lets you change the controls at the bottom of the Lock Screen. You’re no longer stuck with just the flashlight and camera. Now, you can swap them out for other Control Center controls, including third-party apps.
The Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 also gets a boost. It gives you quick access to your favorite functions without unlocking your phone.
The new Control Center in iOS 18 makes it easier to find what you need. You can add controls from third-party apps, making it even more customizable.
These new features let you make your Lock Screen truly personal. Your device will feel more tailored to your style and needs.
The Revamped Photos App
Apple’s iOS 18 update brings a major change to the Photos app on iPhone and iPad. Gone are the familiar tabs at the bottom. Now, everything is in one place for a simpler layout. A big feature is Collections, which sorts your photos into groups like Recent Days and Trips.
You can also customize these Collections. This means you can change the order of sections like Albums and Trips.
Biggest Redesign Ever
The iOS 18 Photos app has been completely overhauled. Apple calls it the biggest update ever. Now, the app is more unified and easy to use, without separate tabs.
The grid shows about 30 images at once. This makes it simpler to look through your photos.
All-New Ways to Play with Text
IOS 18 also brings new text effects for messages. You can now add visual flair to your chats.
The new Photos app in iOS 18 gives you more control and customization. You can rearrange Collections and use better search features. This makes the app truly yours.
Features like Pinned Collections and Memory Maker make it easier to find and enjoy your favorite moments.
Messaging Upgrades
Apple’s new iOS 18 brings exciting changes to the Messages app. You can now add cool text effects like “big,” “small,” and “shake” to your messages. You can also make words bold, italic, underline, or strikethrough, making your chats more fun.
The Tapback system has been greatly improved in iOS 18. Now, you can use any emoji or sticker to react to messages. This makes your responses more personal and engaging.
Tapback with Any Emoji or Sticker
The Tapback system in iOS 18 has been revamped. You can now use a wide variety of emojis or stickers to react to messages. This change lets you express yourself in a more personal and nuanced way.
Other than Tapback, iOS 18 also brings many other improvements to the Messages app. You can schedule messages to send at specific times. There’s also better satellite connectivity for sending SMS and iMessage over satellite. Plus, Live Activity helps you keep track of your connectivity status. These upgrades make messaging more customizable and fun, letting you express yourself in new ways.
ios 18 Satellite Connectivity
Apple’s latest iOS 18 update introduces exciting features, like satellite connectivity for iPhones. You can now send and receive messages even without cell or Wi-Fi. This means you can stay in touch with loved ones, no matter where you are.
The Messages via Satellite feature lets you send and receive texts via satellite on certain iPhones. It’s free for the first three years on iPhone 14 and two years on iPhone 15. After that, a subscription might be needed, but prices are still unknown.
Apple uses the Globalstar satellite network for messaging, covering most of the world. A new satellite replenishment in 2025 will improve coverage and reliability.
For outdoor lovers, iOS 18 also updates Apple Maps with new hiking trail data. You can filter trails, plan routes, and access them offline. This makes planning off-grid adventures easier than ever.
The iOS 18 update’s satellite features are set to change how we stay connected. They show Apple’s dedication to improving the iOS experience and empowering users.
Email and Password Management
In iOS 18, Apple introduces a dedicated Passwords app. It’s a central spot for managing your digital credentials. This app stores your passwords, passkeys, and more, making it easy to access and secure your online accounts.
The Passwords app is available on Windows and across Apple’s ecosystem. This includes iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and VisionOS 2. It ensures you can access your credentials on all your devices.
Categorization
iOS 18’s on-device categorization feature organizes your email messages. It helps you stay on top of your inbox. Your most important emails are in the Primary category, like messages from people you know and urgent emails.
The rest of your emails are sorted into categories like Transactions for receipts and order confirmations. There’s also Promotions for marketing and sales messages, and Updates for newsletters and other updates.
All Your Credentials in One Place
The Passwords app in iOS 18 is a central hub for all your digital credentials. You can add passwords manually by entering the website name and username. You can also generate a secure password or use a custom one.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) codes can be added to the Passwords app. You can enter setup keys or scan QR codes with your camera.
The Passwords app does more than just store your credentials. It offers security recommendations. It identifies reused, weak, or compromised passwords and prompts you to change them as needed.
Apple is also planning to import passwords from other services. This includes 1Password and LastPass, although this feature is not yet available in iOS 18.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Deleted Passwords | Passwords that have been deleted are stored in a Deleted folder in the Passwords app for 30 days before permanent deletion. |
| Passkeys | Websites have started transitioning from passwords to passkeys, stored in the Passkeys section of the Passwords app, enabling logging in using Face ID or Touch ID. |
| Shared Passwords | The Passwords app allows sharing select passwords with trusted contacts in groups formed by adding people from your contacts list. |
| AutoFill | The AutoFill feature enables automatic entry of logins and passwords when visiting websites in Safari that have stored login information. |
| Sync Across Devices | Passwords and logins are synced automatically across Apple devices using iCloud Keychain. |
Maps and Navigation Improvements
Apple has made big changes to the Maps app in iOS 18. These updates are great for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. Now, detailed topographic maps show trail networks and hikes in all 63 U.S. national parks. You can search for “hikes” or “hiking routes” to find nearby trails. Each trail comes with details like length, elevation, and ratings.
Topographic Maps and Trail Networks
The Maps app now lets you filter hikes by length, type, and elevation. You can also save your favorite trails for later. Plus, the app makes sure you stay on safe trails, keeping your adventures safe and responsible. There’s also a “Search here” button to help you find new places easily.
Custom Walking and Hiking Routes
In iOS 18, making your own walking or hiking routes is easy. Just a few taps and you can add points, see details, and pick your route type. You can save your favorite routes in the Maps app. You can even rename them, add notes, and download them for later.
The Maps app in iOS 18 makes exploring the outdoors easier and more fun. With thousands of hikes in the app, you can find new trails and download them for offline use. You can even add your own routes for a unique adventure.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Topographic Maps and Trail Networks |
|
| Custom Walking and Hiking Routes |
|
“The Maps app in iOS 18 takes navigation to new heights, empowering users to explore the great outdoors with greater ease and personalization.”
Gaming Enhancements
For avid mobile gamers, iOS 18 brings exciting updates. Game Mode is a key feature that reduces background activity. This lets your iPhone run games smoothly for longer, up to 30% better. The A18 chip in the iPhone 16 also boosts CPU and GPU performance by 30% and 40% respectively. Plus, a new cooling system keeps your phone cool during long gaming sessions.
With iOS 18, the iPhone 16 can now run top-tier games, just like the Pro models. Also, Personalized Spatial Audio offers a deeper audio experience, making you feel right in the action.
More Responsive AirPods and Controllers
IOS 18 also makes your gaming gear more responsive. The delay between your AirPods and iPhone is now much less. This means a smoother audio experience during games. Wireless game controllers also work better, giving you a quick advantage in games.
These updates in iOS 18 aim to make your mobile gaming better. You’ll enjoy a more immersive, responsive, and high-performance experience on your iPhone.
Apple Pay Updates
With iOS 18, Apple has made Apple Pay better for users. Now, you can get rewards and loans from cards in Apple Pay. In the U.S., you can even apply for loans with Affirm when you use Apple Pay.
Tap to Cash
Another big change is “Tap to Cash” in iOS 18. Just hold two iPhones together to send or receive Apple Cash. You don’t need to share phone numbers or emails. It’s fast and secure, using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode.
Rewards and Installments in Apple Pay
The Wallet app has gotten a lot better too. Now, you can see your rewards balance and use them with Apple Pay. You can also get installment financing options right through Apple Pay. This makes paying easier and more flexible for everyone.
These Apple Pay updates in iOS 18 show Apple’s dedication to better payments. They make managing money and shopping on iOS devices easier and safer.
Siri and AirPods Upgrades
Apple is making Siri and AirPods better with iOS 18. You can now talk to Siri on your AirPods Pro 2 with head gestures. Just nod for “yes” or shake for “no” when Siri asks you something. This hands-free feature is great for keeping Siri active without bothering others, whether you’re on a bus or at home.
Hands-Free Siri Interactions
The new Siri feature works thanks to the H2 chip in AirPods. This chip lets you accept or reject calls with a simple head gesture. It also improves call quality by cutting out background noise and making your voice clearer.
Personalized Spatial Audio for Gaming
iOS 18 also has cool updates for gamers. Game developers can now create immersive audio experiences with the new API. This means you’ll feel like you’re right in the game, with clear 16-bit, 48kHz audio and dynamic head tracking. Plus, iOS 18 has a Game Mode to make your AirPods and controllers work better for gaming.
With hands-free Siri and personalized gaming audio, iOS 18 is a big deal for anyone who loves to work or play.
Conclusion
iOS 18 marks a big step forward for Apple’s mobile system. It brings new features and improvements to make using the iPhone better. You’ll see changes in the home screen, lock screen, Photos, Messages, and Mail apps.
This update also adds satellite connectivity and better gaming and payment options. These features make iOS 18 a top-notch update. They open up new ways to communicate, work, and enjoy your phone.
iOS 18 sets a new benchmark for smartphones. It shows Apple’s dedication to making things better for users. Whether you’ve been using iPhones for years or just started, this update will make your experience even better.
FAQ
When will iOS 18 be released?
Apple’s newest software update, iOS 18, is rolling out today to all iPhone users.
What new features are included in iOS 18?
iOS 18 focuses on personalization. It includes custom icons and a revamped Control Center. It also supports locked and hidden apps.
The Photos app has been overhauled. New messaging features and satellite connectivity are also added. Improvements have been made to email management, Maps, gaming, and Apple Pay.
Which devices are compatible with iOS 18?
iOS 18 is compatible with all iPhone models that support iOS 17. If your iPhone is running iOS 17, it can be updated to iOS 18.
How can I update my iPhone to iOS 18?
To update to iOS 18, go to the Settings app. Tap “General” and then “Software Update.” If you don’t see the update right away, keep checking over the coming hours as it may take some time to hit your iPhone.
What Home Screen customization options are available in iOS 18?
iOS 18 allows users to place app icons and widgets anywhere on the Home Screen. You can also tint these icons and widgets. A new dark mode setting transforms most app icons to a dark theme.
Users can make all app icons and widgets appear larger. This removes the name of the app or widget underneath.
How can I lock and hide apps in iOS 18?
iOS 18 lets you lock apps behind Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode. You can hide these apps from the Home Screen. They will only appear in a new hidden app folder in the App Library.
What changes have been made to the Lock Screen in iOS 18?
iOS 18 allows you to personalize the two controls on the Lock Screen. Instead of being limited to the flashlight and camera buttons, you can now replace them with any of the new Control Center controls. This includes controls from third-party apps.
What are the new features in the Photos app with iOS 18?
The Photos app in iOS 18 has a new layout. It features a streamlined and unified view. The app now includes Collections, which organize your library by theme.
There are extensive customization options. The search functionality has also been improved. This makes it easier to find specific photos.
What new messaging features are introduced in iOS 18?
iOS 18 brings new text effects. You can add visual flair to your conversations. The update also revamps the Tapbacks system.
Now, you can react to messages using a wide range of emojis or stickers.
How does iOS 18 improve satellite connectivity?
iOS 18 upgrades the iPhone’s satellite connectivity features. You can now send SMS messages and iMessages over satellite. There’s also a new Live Activity for the Dynamic Island.
This lets you know you are connected to satellite.
What changes have been made to email and password management in iOS 18?
iOS 18 introduces a dedicated Passwords app. It manages and stores your passwords, passkeys, and more. The update also includes a new on-device categorization feature.
This organizes your emails into categories like Primary and Promotions.
What new features have been added to Maps in iOS 18?
Maps in iOS 18 now features topographic maps. They include detailed trail networks and hikes, including all 63 U.S. national parks. Users can create and save custom walking and hiking routes with just a few taps.
How does iOS 18 improve the gaming experience?
iOS 18 introduces Game Mode. It minimizes background activity for high frame rates. It also reduces audio latency with AirPods, making them more responsive.
The update improves the responsiveness of wireless game controllers. It also enables personalized spatial audio for an immersive gaming experience.
What new features have been added to Apple Pay in iOS 18?
The Wallet app in iOS 18 introduces Tap to Cash. It allows you to securely transfer money to a friend’s iPhone by bringing your phones close together. The update also enables you to view your rewards or points balance in Wallet.
You can redeem points with Apple Pay online and in apps.
What improvements have been made to Siri and AirPods in iOS 18?
With Siri Interactions on AirPods Pro 2, you can nod your head yes or shake your head no to respond to Siri without speaking out loud. iOS 18 also brings personalized spatial audio experiences to games.
It delivers an immersive soundstage for mobile gaming.
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