iOS 18 is just around the corner and promises to be one of the biggest software updates in iPhone history. At the upcoming WWDC 2024, Apple will officially unveil the update. In this article, we summarize the main rumors and expected features that the new iOS 18 will bring.
With each new version, Apple improves its products and offers users an even better and more intuitive experience. iOS 18 will be no exception. According to various reports and leaks, the update will include many new AI features for Siri and other apps, add RCS support to the Messages app, and bring a host of other improvements. WWDC 2024 begins with Apple's keynote on June 10 at 7 p.m. Central European Time, and the beta version of iOS 18 will be available to developers shortly thereafter. The same of course applies to iPadOS 18, tvOS 18, watchOS 11, macOS 15, and visionOS 2.
Smart Siri and generative AI
iOS 18 will bring new AI features to Siri that will greatly increase its usefulness and efficiency. According to sources like Bloomberg's Mark Gurman and The Information's Wayne Ma, Siri will be able to provide more complex and contextual responses. Apple is also working on generative AI that will be integrated into various apps like Spotlight, Shortcuts, Apple Music, Messages, and more.
More customizable homescreen
A big highlight of iOS 18 will be the highly customizable home screen. It will finally be possible to place app icons anywhere on the home screen grid, create white spaces, columns and rows, and even change the colors of the app icons. This feature will greatly improve the user experience and offer more personalization options.
New accessibility features
Apple places a high priority on accessibility and will introduce new features such as eye tracking, vehicle motion cues, music haptics, and vocal shortcuts with iOS 18. CarPlay will also be improved to offer more accessibility features such as sound detection, which is especially useful for deaf or hard of hearing drivers.
New Apple Maps features
iOS 18 will enhance Apple Maps with custom routes and topographic maps. These new features will allow users to select specific streets for navigation and view detailed topographic information for outdoor activities like hiking.
RCS support in the Messages app
The Messages app will get RCS support, which will bring significant improvements to standard messaging between iPhones and Android devices, including higher resolution photos and videos, audio messages, tap indicators, read receipts, and improved group chats.
More rumors per app
- Apple Music: Automatic playlist creation and smarter song transitions.
- Calculator: A redesigned app with new features like a sidebar for recent calculations and integration with the Notes app.
- Calendar: Integration of reminders directly in the calendar app.
- Freeform: Introducing the “Scenes” option for better navigation.
- Health: New AI-powered features.
- Keynote, Numbers and Pages: Generative AI features for automatic slide creation and faster writing.
- Mail, Photos, and Fitness: Redesigned apps with new features like AI-powered photo retouching and email reply suggestions.
- Notes and voice memos: Display of mathematical notations and built-in audio recording tool.
- Safari: Introduction of a browser assistant and the “Web Eraser” function.
- Shortcuts: Easier automation of complex tasks.
- Siri and Spotlight: Generative AI technology answers more complex questions and search queries.
iOS 18: More performance and usability for your iPhone
With iOS 18, Apple wants to show once again that they are at the forefront of technological innovation. The new AI features and other improvements will make your iPhone more powerful and easier to use. Stay tuned for the announcements at WWDC 2024 and get ready to take your iPhone to the next level. iOS 18 promises to offer the best and most intuitive iPhone experience ever. Stay tuned and look forward to the exciting innovations that Apple has in store for you. Are you looking for new accessories? Then take a look in our Amazon Storefront - there you will find numerous products from leading providers, also for HomeKit and Co.! (Photo by Unsplash / Sophia Stark)