Apple Launches Preview of iOS 18: Here are the New Features That You Need to Know

Apple released a preview of iOS 18 at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2024), giving iPhone users a glimpse into the future. The major update promises to significantly increase customization options for all devices and improve communication tools. In addition, the company is also introducing a powerful new feature called Apple Intelligence. Here are all the iOS 18 features you need to know.

Take control of your iPhone: deeper customization and more powerful features

Get ready to personalize your iPhone like never before! With the latest update, you can create a user experience that perfectly reflects your style and needs. Here’s how:

  • Home Screen Freedom: Arrange your apps and widgets however you want. Place them above the Dock for quick access, or create a visual layout that complements your wallpaper.
  • Redesign: Apply dark or light effects to your app icons and widgets to create a new aesthetic. You can even resize them to your liking.

Source: Apple Newsroom

A new look for Control Center: Now you’re in control!

Apple’s iOS 18 further improves the Control Center, giving you a more streamlined way to manage everyday tasks. Here are some of the features you can expect:

  • Access essential features faster: No more digging through menus. Control Center now has dedicated sections for frequently used features like media playback, home control, and connection settings. Just swipe between them for a seamless experience.
  • Your world at your fingertips: Want to unlock your car or launch your social media camera? No problem! Add controls for your favorite third-party apps directly to Control Center.
  • Powerful customization: Take full control of your Control Center. Browse the new Controls Gallery to discover all the available options. Then adjust the layout to your liking: resize controls and even create custom groups for the things you use most.

Source: Apple Newsroom

The lock screen becomes interactive

The lock screen function is more powerful. The specific method is as follows:

  • Customize your shortcuts: Now you can personalize the controls at the bottom of your lock screen. Choose from a whole library of options in the Control Center gallery, or remove them entirely to create a clean, minimalist look.
  • Action Button Benefits (on the Pro Series): iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users can take advantage of the Action Button for faster access. With just a tap, any Control Center feature you’ve added to your gallery can be instantly activated.

Reshape Photos: Organize your memories beautifully

  • Unified View: No more clutter! Photos now have a simplified single view with a familiar grid layout.
  • Smart Collections: No more albums. With smart Collections, you can browse photos by theme. Photos automatically organize your memories into themes like Recent Days, People & Pets, and more.
  • Save your favorite content: Never miss a precious moment. Save your favorite content to the top for instant access.
  • Live Memories: Immerse yourself in the past. A dynamic carousel displays daily highlights showcasing your favorite people, places, and cherished moments.
  • Customization at your fingertips: Make your photos your own. Rearrange collections, save collections, and personalize the carousel to showcase what matters most to you.

Source: Apple Newsroom

Take chat to the next level: Fun and flexible messaging

Get ready to transform your conversations with new updates to Messages on iOS 18. Here’s what’s coming soon:

  • Live Text Effects: Add personality to your text. Highlight any letter, word, emoji or even a whole phrase with dynamic animations. Make your message really stand out with effects like Shake, Bang or Shine.
  • Express yourself: Use rich formatting options to fine-tune your tone. Use bold, underline, or italics for emphasis. Strikethrough can even add a hint of sarcasm.
  • The Tapback Revolution: Show your gratitude in a whole new way! Tapback now supports any emoji or sticker you can think of. From the classic thumbs up to the celebratory cake emoji, the possibilities are endless.
  • Schedule your messages: Never miss a beat! Compose your message instantly and schedule it to be sent at the best time, whether it’s a birthday wish or a friendly reminder.

Source: Apple Newsroom

Staying connected no matter what: messaging via satellite

Imagine you need to send a message but are completely without cell service and Wi-Fi. No more worries! iOS 18 brings you satellite messaging, a game-changer for staying connected.

Here’s how it works:

  • Harness the power of satellite: This feature uses the same technology as the Emergency Satellite feature on iPhone.
  • Seamless Messaging: When you need to send a text, emoji, or Tapback via iMessage or SMS, Satellite Messaging automatically launches, prompting you to connect to the nearest satellite.
  • Dynamic Island keeps you informed: (iPhone 15 Pro only) Dynamic Island displays the status of your satellite connection, so you always know when your message is being delivered.
  • End-to-end encryption for peace of mind: Just like regular iMessage, messages sent via satellite are protected by end-to-end encryption to ensure your privacy.

Source: Apple Newsroom

Password management upgrade: new password app launched

Say goodbye to scattered passwords and hello to streamlined security! iOS 18 introduces the Passwords app, which will become your one-stop place to manage all your credentials.

This new application is built on the trusted foundation of Keychain and offers many improvements, including:

  • Centralized Hub: Access your passwords, keys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes in one convenient place. No more searching in settings!
  • Security made simple: Password App keeps you informed. Receive alerts on weak passwords, reused credentials, and even passwords exposed in data breaches. Proactive security gives you peace of mind.
  • Easy Management: The intuitive interface makes managing your passwords a breeze. It’s the security solution you never knew you needed!

Source: Apple Newsroom

Introducing Apple Intelligence: Your iPhone gets smarter

Get ready for a revolution in the way you interact with your iPhone! Apple Intelligence is seamlessly integrated into iOS 18, leveraging the power of cutting-edge technology to make your communications clearer and more efficient. You can expect the following features:

  • Built-in intelligence: Apple Intelligence was built from the ground up with privacy in mind. This powerful feature runs entirely on your device, so your data stays safe.
  • Reinventing Writing: Introducing system-wide writing tools! Easily rewrite, proofread, and summarize text across applications, from Notes and Mail to Pages and even third-party collections.
  • Communicate with ease: Apple Intelligence lets you express yourself with confidence. Write clear, concise messages to ensure your writing shines in any situation.

Source: Apple Newsroom

What is the availability of iOS 18?

iOS 18 will be rolled out in two phases:

  • Public beta: Starting next month, you can sign up for the public beta through the Beta Software Program on Apple’s website.
  • Final version: iOS 18 will be available as a free software update for iPhone Xs later this fall.

Note: Apple Intelligence beta will be available on limited devices, including iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad and Mac with M1 and later.

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