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In only three days, eligible iPhone users will gain access to iOS 18, as Apple has officially announced the release date during its recent iPhone event. This event not only marked the reveal of the new iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models but also introduced the Apple Watch Series 10 and AirPods 4 (for a comprehensive summary, refer to the details shared during the event). For those who purchase one of the new models on September 20, the device will come pre-installed with iOS 18. For users with older iPhones, the update will be available for free starting September 16. However, it’s crucial to note that not all iPhone models will support this update, and even compatible devices may lack access to certain advanced Apple Intelligence features.
This trend of update eligibility varies from year to year, as Apple typically discontinues support for older models. Last year, for instance, the compatibility list did not include the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X, which left those users unable to upgrade to iOS 17 and thus miss out on several notable features. Conversely, some previous models may still benefit from substantial new functionalities; for example, Apple is rolling out an update that will enable existing AirPods Pro headphones to function like hearing aids, which recently received FDA approval for release later this year.
To determine whether your iPhone can support iOS 18 and experience Apple Intelligence, you can refer to Apple’s resources for guidance. For a detailed exploration of all the features included in iOS 18, you can view Apple’s detailed PDF list or check the roundup from MacRumors.
iPhones Compatible with iOS 18
If you owned a compatible device last year when iOS 17 was released, it’s likely that your phone will still qualify to upgrade to iOS 18, as noted by Apple. This means that many users won’t need to invest in a new device to access the majority of the new features.
Specifically, if your iPhone was from the 2017 model year or earlier, such as the iPhone 8 or iPhone X, you won’t be able to upgrade to the latest iOS. However, your device should continue to function properly, albeit without the latest features.
Is Your iPhone Compatible with Apple Intelligence?
While older devices will be eligible for the latest iOS, users of devices prior to the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max will likely miss out on testing the Apple Intelligence beta next month. If you own one of the newer iPhone 16 models or the top-tier iPhone 15 models, then you can anticipate full compatibility with this feature.
When Will Apple Intelligence Features Be Available?
For those whose devices are compatible with Apple Intelligence, new features will roll out starting in October, when updates for the supported iPhones are released.
The initial rollout of Apple Intelligence will begin in English in the United States this October, followed by localized versions for Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom in December. Support for additional languages such as Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish is expected to follow in the next year, as confirmed by Apple.
It is important to note that Apple Intelligence will not be available in EU countries at this juncture due to ongoing regulatory discussions regarding the enforcement of the EU’s Digital Markets Act.
New Features to Expect in iOS 18
While Apple Intelligence takes center stage as the standout update, iOS 18 will introduce several significant features over time. However, many advanced functionalities will primarily be available for the iPhone 15 Pro series. Here’s a look at some exciting new features set to launch with the new operating system:
Passwords App: This new feature will allow users to securely store all login credentials and alerts in one accessible location, streamlining the login process.
Enhanced Messages App: Users can now format text with bold, italics, underline, and strikethrough options, along with an option to introduce animations in messages. Additionally, the integration of RCS aims to improve compatibility with Android messaging.
Organized Photos Library: The Photos app is set for a redesign, enabling users to create and pin personalized collections, such as “Family Gathering” or “Vacation,” moving away from the tabbed interface to a grid layout.
Customizable Home Screen Layout: This update allows greater flexibility in arranging apps, enabling users to leave space for wallpaper and customize app appearance with various color tints.
Several other essential applications, such as Maps, Calendar, and Safari, will also see notable advancements. Users can find additional hidden features highlighted by experts in iOS 18 and other Apple operating system updates based on earlier beta releases.
Is There an iOS 18 Beta?
Yes, an iOS 18 beta is currently available for those willing to manage potential bugs and issues inherent in beta software. However, for users who have not yet installed it, waiting for the official release may be a more practical choice.
What About MacOS Sequoia, iPadOS 18, WatchOS 11, and tvOS 18?
For users of other Apple devices, the timeline for upcoming software updates is as follows:
MacOS Sequoia: September 16
iPadOS 18: September 16
WatchOS 11: September 16
tvOS 18: The release date has not been finalized yet, but it is currently in public beta testing and nearing completion, as reported by MacRumors.
visionOS 2: September 16
In terms of AirPods, Apple has reportedly begun pushing firmware updates to AirPods Pro, preparing for the functionalities included in iOS 18. However, it is noteworthy that the newly introduced hearing aid feature may not be available in the first phase of the update, despite having received recent FDA clearance.
Update, September 12, 3:28 PM ET: Added information about the FDA’s approval for hearing aid functionality for AirPods Pro.
Update, September 11, 12:13 PM ET: New details regarding firmware updates to AirPods Pro have been included.
Update, September 10, 9:54 AM ET: Release dates for additional Apple OS software updates have been announced.
Update, September 9, 5:00 PM ET: Clarified the absence of Apple Intelligence availability in EU territories.
Update, September 9, 3:37 PM ET: This article has been updated with the latest release dates for iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence.
Source
www.engadget.com