Apple plans to introduce iOS 18 at its WWDC keynote on June 10. The announcement is just over six weeks away. Here, we review the expected features and updates for the iPhone in iOS 18.
It is said that iOS 18 will be the largest update ever for the iPhone. It will include new generative AI features similar to ChatGPT, a Home Screen that users can customize more, and other significant enhancements. The initial developer beta of iOS 18 is expected to be released right after the WWDC keynote. The general release of the update is anticipated for September.
Here are the Top 10 Features:
Enhanced Siri
There are rumors that iOS 18 will bring new generative AI capabilities to Siri, Spotlight, Shortcuts, Apple Music, Messages, Health, Keynote, Numbers, Pages, and other apps. These advancements are likely to use Apple’s own large language model (LLM) running directly on devices. Additionally, Apple is said to have explored collaborations with companies such as Google, OpenAI, and Baidu.
Enhanced Home Screen Customization
Rumors suggest that iOS 18 will feature a Home Screen that users can customize more freely. It will reportedly include options to position app icons anywhere on the grid, allowing for empty spaces, rows, and columns between the icons.
Better Messaging With Android Users
Apple has stated it will adopt the RCS messaging standard in the iPhone’s Messages app beginning in late 2024, possibly as a feature of iOS 18. RCS improves on SMS by supporting higher-quality photo and video sharing, audio messages, indicators showing when someone is typing, read receipts, and messaging over Wi-Fi, enhancing communication between iOS and Android devices.
Updated Calculator
The new iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15 are rumored to include a redesigned Calculator app. This update will feature a sidebar showing recent calculations, a better unit conversion interface, integration with the Notes app, and additional enhancements. Notably, the Calculator app will also be available on the iPad for the first time.
Math Features in Notes App
The Notes app in iOS 18 is anticipated to support mathematical notation. This will enable users to add various algebraic equations and formulas to their notes.
New Features in Apple Maps
iOS 18 is expected to introduce at least two new features in Apple Maps. These include custom routes, which let users select particular roads for navigation, and topographic maps. Topographic maps show trails, contour lines, elevation, and points of interest, useful for hiking and outdoor activities. Apple previously added topographic maps to the Apple Watch with watchOS 10.
Safari Browsing Assistant
iOS 18 may include a new generative AI browsing assistant in Safari, though details are not yet specified. Other iPhone web browsers already feature AI capabilities, like Microsoft Edge with its GPT-4-powered Copilot, and Arc Search, which can summarize web pages for quick information.
AirPods Pro Hearing Aid Feature
It is reported that iOS 18 will introduce a “hearing aid mode” for AirPods Pro. Details on how this will differ from Apple’s current Conversation Boost feature, introduced in 2021, are not yet clear.
Next-Generation CarPlay
According to Apple’s website, vehicles equipped with the next-generation CarPlay are expected to appear in 2024. This platform might launch with iOS 18 later this year. It’s also possible that this new CarPlay could work with certain versions of iOS 17.
New Scenes Option in Freeform
iOS 18 is said to include a “Scenes” feature in the Freeform drawing app. This option will let users pick particular sections or “scenes” of the canvas to make navigation simpler.
What we think?
I think iOS 18 is going to be a huge update. It sounds like Apple is adding some cool AI stuff, like a smarter Siri and a new browsing assistant in Safari.
Being able to customize the Home Screen more sounds fun, and better messaging with Android users is a big plus.
Also, the new features in Apple Maps and the Calculator app will make things easier. I’m really looking forward to it!