Apple introduced iOS 18, a major update bringing unprecedented customisation options, a complete redesign of the Photos app, enhanced connectivity features, and the integration of Apple Intelligence. This release aims to make iPhones more personal, capable, and intelligent than ever before.
Key Features of iOS 18:
New Customisation Options: iPhone users can now arrange apps and widgets in any open space on the Home Screen, customise buttons at the bottom of the Lock Screen, and enjoy a redesigned Control Centre for quicker access to frequently used controls.
This enhanced flexibility allows users to tailor their iPhones to their preferences, creating a more personalised experience.
Photos App Redesign: The Photos app has been completely overhauled to help users easily find and relive special moments.
It now features a unified view, helpful new collections, and a carousel that updates daily with highlights of favourite people, pets, places, and more. Autoplaying content throughout the app ensures past moments are continuously enjoyed.
Enhanced Messaging: iMessage now includes new text effects, formatting options, and the ability to schedule messages.
Tapbacks have been expanded to include any emoji or sticker, and Messages via satellite enable users to stay connected when cellular or Wi-Fi connections are unavailable.
Mail and Safari Updates: Mail now organises emails into categories like Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions, making it easier to manage the inbox.
Safari introduces Highlights for effortless information discovery and a redesigned Reader for a distraction-free reading experience.
Passwords App: Building on Keychain, the new Passwords app centralises passwords, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes.
It also provides alerts for common password weaknesses, enhancing security.
Apple Intelligence Integration: Deeply integrated into iOS 18, Apple Intelligence brings systemwide Writing Tools for rewriting, proofreading, and summarising text.
Image Playground allows users to create playful images quickly, while Memories in Photos crafts storylines from user-provided descriptions. Siri has been enhanced to be more natural and contextually relevant, with new capabilities including integrated access to ChatGPT.
Privacy Enhancements: iOS 18 introduces tools for managing app visibility, contact sharing, and accessory connections.
Users can lock and hide apps for added privacy, ensuring sensitive information remains unseen.
Additional Features:
● Apple Maps: Users can browse hikes across U.S. national parks and create custom walking routes.
● Gaming: Game Mode offers consistent frame rates and improved responsiveness for wireless accessories.
● Apple Pay: New ways to redeem rewards and access instalments from credit or debit cards.
● SharePlay: Enhanced music sharing capabilities.
● AirPods: Improved call quality and interactive Siri features for AirPods Pro (2nd generation).
● Notes App: Instant solving of formulas with Math Notes and new organisational tools.
● Journal App: Insights view for tracking journaling goals and a widget for quick entries.
● Calendar: Integration with Reminders for better task management.
● Health App: Redesigned Medical ID and pregnancy tracking features.
● Emergency SOS: Live video sharing during emergency calls.
● Home App: Guest access and hands-free unlock with Ultra Wideband technology.
● Accessibility: Eye Tracking for navigation and Music Haptics for experiencing music through the Taptic Engine.
The developer beta of iOS 18 is available today, with a public beta next month and a free software update this fall.
For more information, visit apple.com/ios/ios-18-preview.
