After over three months of extensive beta testing, iOS 18 is ready for its public debut. The wait is finally over, as Apple plans to release the highly anticipated update on Monday, September 16. For those eager to experience the latest features, iOS 18 will be available for installation starting around 10 a.m. Pacific Time (1 p.m. Eastern Time). You can update your device by navigating to the Settings app, tapping on General, and selecting Software Update—but only if you own an iPhone XS or a newer model.
While this release is exciting for many, not every new feature will be available right away. Some updates, including the Apple Intelligence features, are reserved for future versions like iOS 18.1 and beyond. Despite this, there are still plenty of changes to explore.
When will iOS 18 be released to the public?
Let’s take a brief look at iOS 18, which will be released on 16.09.2024. iOS 18 introduces a whole array of fresh features, giving users more control over their devices than ever before. Below are eight highlights of what to expect from this update:
- Customizable Home Screen: With iOS 18, the Home Screen becomes your canvas. You can freely place app icons anywhere within the grid, allowing for more personalized organization. Additionally, new Dark and Tinted options allow you to recolor app icons. If you’re looking for a more minimalist look, the ability to enlarge icons without text labels beneath them is also available.
- Redesigned Control Center: The Control Center has also received a makeover. Much like the Home Screen, users can now rearrange and resize controls to their liking. With a new controls gallery, adding or removing functionalities has never been easier.
- iMessage Enhancements: Messaging gets an upgrade in iOS 18. From new emoji Tapback reactions to fancy text effects like Shake and Explode, your conversations can have more personality. Additionally, iOS 18 introduces formatting options, the ability to schedule messages, and even RCS support for better communication with Android users.
- Redesigned Photos App: Say goodbye to the old tabs in the Photos app. Apple has completely revamped the layout, opting for an all-in-one interface. While these changes stirred some controversy during beta testing, Apple has made further adjustments to ensure a smoother user experience.
- App Locking with Face ID: For privacy-conscious users, iOS 18 allows you to lock any app with Face ID, Touch ID, or your iPhone passcode. You can also hide certain apps, placing them in a hidden folder that is password-protected.
- New Passwords App: Managing passwords just got easier with the new Passwords app, which simplifies access to features like iCloud Keychain, two-factor authentication, and passkey management.
- Distraction Control: Aimed at reducing unnecessary distractions online, Safari now comes with a Distraction Control feature. This tool helps block non-essential elements like newsletter forms and cookie pop-ups without functioning as a traditional ad blocker.
- Game Mode: A gamer’s delight, Game Mode—first introduced on Mac—is now available on iPhone. By reducing background activity and cutting down on audio latency, iOS 18 promises a smoother and more responsive gaming experience, especially with wireless controllers and AirPods.
Does my iPhone support iOS 18?
If you’re wondering whether your iPhone is ready for this big update, you’re in luck. iOS 18 will be available on all devices that currently support iOS 17, including some of the older models. The following iPhones are compatible with iOS 18:
- All iPhone 16 models
- All iPhone 15 models
- All iPhone 14 models
- All iPhone 13 models
- All iPhone 12 models
- All iPhone 11 models
- iPhone XS and XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generations)
While the update will run smoothly on these devices, keep in mind that some advanced features, like on-device AI capabilities, will require an iPhone 15 Pro or later. So, while older models will still benefit from most new features, not every function of iOS 18 will be available to them.
Image credits: Apple
