Apple has officially announced that iOS 18 will be released on September 16 as a free software update for eligible iPhones. This new update brings a range of exciting features and enhancements, with the Apple Intelligence features generating the most buzz. However, users will have to wait a bit longer for these AI features, as they will not be available in the initial release.
The first wave of Apple Intelligence features will be rolled out in beta next month as part of iOS 18.1, with more features scheduled to be released in the coming months. While iOS 18 will be compatible with older iPhone models, the Apple Intelligence features will only be available on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. All models in the newly launched iPhone 16 series will support the AI features.
Apple has also confirmed that the AI features will initially be available on devices set to US English for Siri. However, additional languages and platforms are expected to be supported in the next year. By the end of this year, Apple Intelligence will add support for localized English in countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK. In 2024, the AI features will expand to include languages such as Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish.
For users in India, Apple will introduce some India-focused features in iOS 18. These features will include enhancements tailored for Indian users across various functionalities, including communication, language input, and updates to the Move to iOS app. Users will be able to customize the time display on the lock screen with Indian numerals from 12 different languages. Additionally, Live Voicemail Transcription in Indian English will be available to iPhone users in India.
In addition to the Apple Intelligence features and India-focused updates, iOS 18 will bring a range of new features across different aspects of the operating system. The Home Screen will allow users to relocate apps and widgets, offering more flexibility in layout customization. The Control Centre has been revamped with new controls accessible via a swipe-up gesture, and the Messages app will receive updates like RCS messaging support and scheduled messages.
Other improvements in iOS 18 include the introduction of App Lock for enhanced privacy, on-device email categorization in the Mail app, Game Mode for optimized gaming performance, and a redesigned Photos app with intelligent photo organization features. Siri will also support gestures for hands-free interaction, and personalized spatial audio will be available for gaming enthusiasts later this year.
Overall, iOS 18 promises to be a significant update with a range of new features and enhancements for iPhone users. Whether you’re looking forward to the Apple Intelligence features, India-focused updates, or the various system-wide improvements, there’s plenty to be excited about when iOS 18 arrives on September 16.