“Apple IOS 18: Launch Date, Innovative Features, And List Of Supported Devices”

Apple’s next iOS 18 update might introduce big changes, including a new look with round icons similar to VisionOS and adding AI-based features to its main apps.

Apple’s 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is fast approaching, generally starting with a keynote in early June. Although WWDC is mainly aimed at developers, it often focuses more on iOS updates than on new hardware releases. This year, iOS 18 is anticipated to be one of the most substantial updates Apple has ever released for the iPhone. Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has even teased significant forthcoming announcements related to Generation AI later this year. Based on his statements, it seems likely that WWDC will be the venue where these major updates will be revealed.

iOS 18 is said to be a major overhaul

Apple’s iOS 16 and iOS 17 updates were relatively minor, introducing few visual modifications and primarily concentrating on stabilizing the operating system by refining its core functionalities. In contrast, the forthcoming iOS 18 is expected to be a significant departure, offering changes at the UI level along with numerous new features that enhance the user experience for iPhone owners. Bloomberg reports that iOS 18, internally referred to as “Crystal,” is currently under vigorous development.

iOS 18 launch date

The official release of iOS 18 is set to coincide with the launch of the upcoming iPhone 16 series, which is expected in September. However, Apple plans to offer a preview of iOS 18 at its annual developers conference, usually held in June, where it will also introduce the latest operating systems for Apple Watch, Mac, Apple TV, and other devices.

The first developer beta version of iOS 18 is anticipated to be released in June, followed by the first public beta version likely in July or August. Keep in mind that these early versions are not the final product and are mainly intended for app developers and tech enthusiasts eager to explore the new features before they are officially released.

Visual revamp speculated

Rumors suggest that iOS 18 draws inspiration from VisionOS, which could bring about significant design changes such as circular icons and a translucent user interface that integrates smoothly across the system. Additionally, there’s talk of a redesigned control center and enhanced customization options. However, considering that square-shaped icons have been a consistent element since the first iOS, it will be intriguing to see if Apple decides to transition to circular icons to align with VisionOS’s design principles.

AI-enhanced first-party apps

Apple may not add separate AI features like those found in the Galaxy S24 to iPhones, but it plans to include AI in its current apps and services. For example, iOS 17.4 brought AI-created transcripts to Apple Podcasts. Reports suggest Apple will add AI to its built-in apps. Bloomberg mentioned Apple is working on a big AI system called Ajax, which will bring ChatGPT-like features to Siri, making conversations more chat-like.

Apple is expected to use a mix of on-device and cloud computing for AI, similar to Samsung. The email and notes apps might get AI features that let users summarize and translate text right in the apps. Still, these new features might only be available on the newest iPhones.

Some reports also suggest that, with iOS 18, Apple will introduce features like app sideloading, third-party payment gateway, third-party default browser, and more to the global audience. However, it is very unlikely.

iOS 18-supported devices

More than 20 iPhone models are expected to receive the iOS 18 update. However, the iPhone XS and XR series might not qualify for the upgrade. It’s anticipated that any iPhone model released from the iPhone 11 onwards will be compatible with the iOS 18 update.

Here is the complete list of devices expected to support the iOS 18 update:

1. iPhone 11
2. iPhone 11 Pro
3. iPhone 11 Pro Max
4. iPhone 12 mini
5. iPhone 12
6. iPhone 12 Pro
7. iPhone 12 Pro Max
8. iPhone 13 mini
9. iPhone 13
10. iPhone 13 Pro
11. iPhone 13 Pro Max
12. iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
13. iPhone 14
14. iPhone 14 Plus
15. iPhone 14 Pro
16. iPhone 14 Pro Max
17. iPhone 15
18. iPhone 15 Plus
19. iPhone 15 Pro
20. iPhone 15 Pro Max

These models are likely to be eligible for the iOS 18 update based on their release dates and hardware capabilities.