Apple’s iOS updates are always a highlight for tech enthusiasts, bringing fresh features, improved functionality, and often launching alongside the latest iPhones. However, with iOS 18, Apple made a surprising move: they delayed its release by a few days. This has left many wondering why the tech giant, known for its precise timelines, held back its much-anticipated update.
Why was iOS 18 delayed?
Apple often releases new iPhones alongside the latest iOS update, but this time, they held back iOS 18 for a few days. This choice likely came down to a few important factors:
- Ongoing Beta testing
- Some features aren’t finished yet
- Phased rollout for stability
Here is a closer look at each reason.
Ongoing Beta testing
For months, beta testers have been trying out iOS 18 to help Apple smooth out any issues. While the software is almost ready, some features are still being tested to make sure they work perfectly. Apple is known for taking its time to deliver the best experience, so they’re still fine-tuning the final details.
Some features aren’t finished yet
Not all the features Apple promised at their June 2024 WWDC event will be included in the first iOS 18 release. One major feature, Apple Intelligence (a new AI-powered platform with features like smarter Siri and AI-generated emojis), won’t be ready until iOS 18.1, which is coming in October 2024. By waiting to release these features, Apple can ensure they’re polished and ready.
Phased rollout for stability
Apple prefers to release big updates in stages to avoid any major issues. By staggering the release of iOS 18 and spreading out new features over updates like iOS 18.0 and 18.1, they reduce the risk of bugs affecting a large number of users. This phased rollout ensures a smoother experience for everyone.
What about the iOS 18 RC?
While Apple didn’t release iOS 18 at the “It’s Glowtime” event, they did make the iOS 18 Release Candidate (RC) available to developers. The RC is essentially the near-final version of the software, giving developers and beta testers a last look at the new features before the official public release on September 16, 2024. This stage is crucial for catching any last-minute bugs and ensuring apps work smoothly with the new operating system.
How to access iOS 18 RC
Developers who want to try the iOS 18 RC can install it through their registered Apple Developer accounts. Here’s how to access it:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Go to Software Update by clicking General.
- Select Beta Updates.
- Turn on iOS 18 Developer Beta.
This iOS RC version helps developers test app compatibility and get a final preview of the new features, so everything is ready for the public release.
Features in iOS 18 RC
The iOS 18 RC includes most of the features expected in the official release, along with some final tweaks to performance and usability. Some highlights include:
- Safari Highlights: A new feature that summarizes key information from web pages, making it easier to find important content at a glance.
- Photos App Redesign: The Photos app has a cleaner, more user-friendly design for easier navigation and better organization of your media.
- Tap to Cash: A new way to send and receive money using Apple Cash, offering a seamless peer-to-peer payment experience.
- Gaming Mode: This new mode optimizes performance for demanding games, making iOS 18 ideal for mobile gamers.
- Siri on AirPods: AirPods users will be able to control Siri with simple head gestures, adding a hands-free way to interact with the assistant.
iOS release date and supported devices
Apple has confirmed that iOS 18 will be available to download on September 16, 2024. It will be compatible with all devices that supported iOS 17, including models from the iPhone SE (2nd generation) all the way to the new iPhone 16 series. However, the more advanced Apple Intelligence features will only work on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and newer devices.
Featured image credit: Lukas Hartmann/Pexels
