All known details about Apple iOS 18 summarized

Curious about iOS 18? Here’s what to expect: generative AI features, release date, and supported devices

iOS 18, Apple’s next iPhone operating system, is expected to introduce several generative AI features, enhanced customization options, and a significant design overhaul. While Apple’s WWDC conference, which typically highlights iOS updates, is a few weeks away, here’s a preview of what we know about iOS 18.

When is the expected release date for iOS 18?

Apple reportedly faced a setback with its upcoming iPhone operating system in November last year. A Bloomberg report indicated that the Cupertino-based tech giant paused development for a week to address issues affecting iOS 17 users.

Nonetheless, the delay is unlikely to affect the development timeline of iOS 18. It is anticipated that Apple will unveil the new operating system during the second week of June at WWDC 2024. Subsequently, developers can expect access for beta testing, followed by a public beta in July. Barring any unforeseen issues, iOS 18 is projected to be released in the second or third week of September, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 16 series.

Revamped visuals and RCS compatibility

Apple will offer a preview of upcoming features at the June WWDC 2024 event. Rumors suggest that the next iOS version may draw inspiration from Vision OS, the operating system of the Vision Pro headset. If accurate, this implies that we can expect to see more circular icons and a translucent user interface.

Last October, Apple announced that iPhones would soon support Rich Communication Services (RCS), a protocol developed by Google. This update will allow iPhone users to send high-quality images and videos to Android devices and introduce features such as read receipts, typing indicators, and the ability to share locations within text threads.

Apple stated that RCS support would arrive on iPhones through a software update later this year, indicating that the feature is likely to be included in iOS 18.

Generative AI-powered features

Apple is said to be developing numerous generative AI features, likely to be introduced with the release of iOS 18. These features could integrate artificial intelligence into native apps. While first-party apps like Mail and Notes might offer translation and summarization features, they could be limited to newer iPhone models due to higher memory requirements.

A recent report by 9to5Mac also indicates that Apple is working on new AI capabilities for Apple Music, potentially enabling the auto-generation of music playlists.

There are rumors suggesting that Apple could follow Samsung’s lead and adopt a hybrid AI integration approach. This would involve using an on-device model for some features and leveraging cloud computing for resource-intensive functionalities. Recent reports indicate that Apple has been in discussions with Google to introduce some Gemini-powered features to iPhones. Additionally, the company is exploring the use of AI models developed by OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, as well as the Chinese tech giant Baidu.

Is my iPhone compatible with iOS 18?

Apple typically supports iPhones for several years. If you have an iPhone purchased within the last four or five years, it is likely to receive the iOS 18 update. However, older Apple devices may not receive all the new features included in the update.

Speculations indicate that more than twenty iPhone models will be eligible for the update. Below is a list of all the devices expected to receive iOS 18.

iPhone XS

iPhone XS Max

iPhone XR

iPhone SE (2nd generation)

iPhone SE (3rd generation)

iPhone 11

iPhone 11 Pro

iPhone 11 Pro Max

iPhone 12 mini

iPhone 12

iPhone 12 Pro

iPhone 12 Pro Max

iPhone 13 mini

iPhone 13

iPhone 13 Pro

iPhone 13 Pro Max

iPhone 14

iPhone 14 Plus

iPhone 14 Pro

iPhone 14 Pro Max

iPhone 15

iPhone 15 Plus

iPhone 15 Pro

iPhone 15 Pro Max