Apple has now released its latest operating systems: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, tvOS 18, watchOS 11, macOS 15 and visionOS 2 as well as HomePod version 18. These updates bring a variety of innovative features and improvements that significantly expand the Apple experience on all devices. From improved health functions on the Apple Watch to new augmented reality capabilities of the Apple Vision Pro - each platform offers unique innovations. In this article you will get a detailed overview of all the important features of the new operating systems.
iOS 18: The iPhone becomes more versatile, intelligent and secure
New lock screen and widgets
The redesigned lock screen gives you more flexibility by allowing you to add interactive widgets. Widgets can now be used interactively directly from the lock screen without having to open the apps. You can control playlists, check off reminders or even operate smart home devices.
Live Activities and Dynamic Island
Live Activity shows you real-time information right on the lock screen and in the Dynamic Island. These provide quick access to important updates like sports scores or deliveries.
news via satellite
A groundbreaking innovation is the ability to send messages via satellite - even in areas without cell reception. This is ideal for travel or emergencies in remote regions. The feature requires an iPhone 14 or newer.
privacy and security improvements
New privacy features like app blocking and hiding give you more control over your sensitive data. You can determine which apps can access which contacts and specify how and when information can be shared.
Improved Photos app
The Photos app now uses advanced AI to better organize your photos. Thanks to automated suggestions and the new Memories feature, you can find your most important memories even faster.
iOS 18 compatibility
One of the most important questions iPhone owners ask is whether their device is compatible with the new iOS 18. Here is the list of iPhone models that will receive the update:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS and XS Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
iPadOS 18: More productivity and flexibility
Improved Stage Manager and Multitasking
The Stage Manager has been optimized and allows you to arrange several windows on the screen at the same time. The multitasking capabilities of iPadOS 18 make the iPad an even more powerful work device.
Advanced features for the Apple Pencil
Apple Pencil 3 is now even more intuitive with new gestures and improved handwriting recognition. The Math Notes feature lets you write and solve mathematical expressions in real time, making it ideal for students and professionals.
New Freeform app
The Freeform app has been further developed to allow you to create whiteboards and diagrams that you can share with others in real time. It offers more flexibility in collaboration and helps you organize projects more efficiently.
Files app and external work
With iPadOS 18, the iPad becomes a real laptop replacement. Thanks to the improved Files app and mouse and keyboard support, you can use the iPad for professional work environments. The Favorites function within the Files app ensures faster access to important documents.
Compatible iPad models for iPadOS 18
Apple has released a list of iPad models compatible with iPadOS 18. Here are the supported models:
- iPad: 7th generation and newer (2019)
- iPad mini: 5th generation and newer (2019)
- iPad Air: 3rd generation and newer (2019)
- iPad Pro: 1st-gen 11-inch and later (2018), 3rd-gen 12.9-inch and later (2018)
macOS 15 Sequoia: Powerful desktop experience
Safari updates
Safari now offers a Highlights feature that highlights important information on web pages and allows you to search more efficiently. Reader mode has also been improved to support distraction-free reading.
Personalized spatial audio support
Spatial audio on Mac has been optimized for gaming to provide a more immersive experience. Thanks to macOS 15, you can now immerse yourself deeply in game worlds and be more aware of your surroundings.
Which Macs support macOS 15?
You can install macOS 15 on any Mac with Apple Silicon, starting with the M1 chip and up. This means the following models are compatible:
- MacBook Pro: Models introduced in 2021 or later, as well as the MacBook Pro (13-inch, M1, 2020).
- MacBook Air: Models introduced in 2022 or later, as well as the MacBook Air (M1, 2020).
- iMac: Models introduced in 2021 or later.
- Mac mini: Models introduced in 2020 or later.
- Mac Studio: Models from 2022 or later.
- Mac Pro: Models from 2023.
tvOS 18: Your home cinema becomes smarter
InSight and Apple TV+
With InSight, Apple TV now provides additional information while watching a film or series. You can see details about actors or music in real time on your screen without having to interrupt the program. This feature is especially useful if you want to learn more about an actor or the soundtrack composers.
Improved HomeKit integration
tvOS 18 brings deeper integration with HomeKit, making it even easier to control your smart home from your TV. You can monitor cameras, control lights, or automatically include devices in scenes - all from the Apple TV interface.
tvOS 18 compatibility list
First of all, the good news: tvOS 18 is compatible with the following devices:
- Apple TV HD (2015)
- Apple TV 4K (2017)
- Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) (2021)
- Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation) (2022)
This broad compatibility ensures that many Apple TV users can benefit from the new features.
watchOS 11: Improved health and fitness features
New health functions
The Vitals app on the Apple Watch enables more precise monitoring of health data such as blood oxygen and heart rate. Thanks to training load measurements, you can now track and optimize your athletic progress in even more detail.
Smart Stack and Widgets
The improved Smart Stack feature shows you relevant widgets based on time, location and activity. Live activities like weather or sports scores are displayed directly on your Apple Watch to keep you up to date.
Improved workouts and GPS
With watchOS 11, GPS workouts are more accurate, especially when running or cycling. There are also new workouts like swim intervals that use haptics to notify you when you need to change your pace.
sleep apnea detection
The most important innovation is the ability to detect sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a widespread but often unnoticed condition in which breathing stops during sleep. This can significantly affect the quality of sleep and lead to serious health problems in the long term. With the new function, the Apple Watch monitors your breathing patterns while you sleep. If anything abnormal is detected, the watch informs you and recommends that you see a doctor. This is another step by Apple to establish the Watch as a comprehensive health device. The feature is available on the Series 9, Ultra 2 and Series 10!
Compatible devices with watchOS 11
Not all Apple Watch models will receive the update to watchOS 11. Here is the list of supported devices:
- Apple Watch Series 6
- Apple Watch Series 7
- Apple Watch Series 8
- Apple Watch Series 9
- Apple Watch Series 10
- Apple Watch Ultra (1st generation)
- Apple Watch Ultra (2nd generation)
- Apple Watch SE (2nd generation)
Unfortunately, the Apple Watch Series 4, Apple Watch Series 5 and the first Apple Watch SE will not receive the update.
visionOS 2: The Future of Spatial Computing
Improved hand gestures and eye control
visionOS 2 expands the control of the Apple Vision Pro with improved hand gestures and eye control. You can now navigate through virtual environments precisely by simply looking at objects with your eyes and selecting them with gestures. You can also look forward to a new environment for your Apple Vision Pro. The Bora Bora environment offers you a beach scene with blue sea and distant mountain views that will instantly relax you.
Multiview and virtual workplace
The new Multiview feature allows you to use multiple virtual screens at the same time. This offers an even more comprehensive AR experience, as you can freely position apps and windows in your virtual environment and scale them as needed. Perfect for use as a virtual workplace.
Spatial Photos and SharePlay
With visionOS 2, you can create spatial photos that offer more depth and perspective than traditional images. These can also be shared in real time with SharePlay to interact with others in a 3D environment.
Mindfulness app and new AR features
The Mindfulness app has been enhanced with AR breathing exercises. You can see visual representations of your breathing in the virtual environment, making your meditation experience even more immersive. Need useful tips for your Apple Vision Pro? Here you can discover everything you need to know about your new Apple device – enjoy reading!
You don't want to switch yet? No problem
In addition to the updates mentioned above, Apple has also released iOS 17.7 and iPadOS 17.7. These versions are aimed at users who are not yet ready to switch to iOS 18. According to Apple, these updates fix bugs, increase stability and close various security gaps.
A new chapter: What the Apple updates have in store for you in 2024
Apple's 2024 operating system updates offer a wealth of new features that improve the user experience across all devices. From iOS 18 with new privacy features and interactive widgets to visionOS 2, which shapes the future of spatial computing, each update brings innovative features that redefine the way you use your Apple devices. Are you looking for new accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront – there you will find a variety of products from leading providers, including for HomeKit and more! (Image: Apple)
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