At Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event on September 9, many anticipated the release of iOS 18 alongside new devices like the iPhone 16 series and Apple Watch Series 10.
While Apple did discuss iOS 18, and set the official release date, a few days before the iPhone 16 hits stores.
Why wasn’t iOS 18 released at the Apple event?
The decision not to release iOS 18 during the event can be attributed to a few key reasons. Apple has a well-established pattern of releasing new iPhone models alongside the latest iOS updates.
However, there are times when software releases are staggered, especially when key features are still in development.
1. Ongoing beta testing
For months, beta testers have been exploring the new features of iOS 18, helping Apple fine-tune the software before its official release. Although the operating system is largely ready for a public launch, some features are still undergoing final testing and may not be fully polished.
2. Incomplete feature set
Not all of the features announced at WWDC will be available in iOS 18 when it launches. For example, Apple Intelligence, the new AI-powered platform, won’t be fully available until iOS 18.1, which is expected later in October 2024. Some of the most exciting AI features, such as Siri enhancements, ChatGPT integration, and Genmoji (AI-generated emojis), are still in development and are slated for release in future updates.
3. Phased rollout
Apple often releases major updates in phases to ensure stability and iron out any remaining bugs. This approach minimizes the risk of widespread issues affecting users when the software is first released. By spacing out the release of new features over multiple updates (iOS 18.0, 18.1, and beyond), Apple ensures a smoother experience for users.
What to expect from iOS 18?
Apple first introduced iOS 18 at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2024, teasing a series of exciting features that promised to enhance the iPhone experience. Among these features are a customizable Home Screen, a revamped Control Center, and Apple Intelligence — a suite of AI-powered tools designed to improve everything from messaging to image generation.
When iOS 18 does arrive on September 16, 2024, it will bring a host of exciting new features that promise to make the iPhone more customizable and intuitive.
Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:
1. Customizable home screen
One of the most anticipated features of iOS 18 is the ability to organize the Home Screen with more freedom. Unlike previous versions of iOS, users will be able to place apps wherever they want within the grid, rather than being forced to arrange them from left to right, top to bottom. This level of customization is something ex-Android users have long requested.
2. New control center
iOS 18 will introduce a revamped Control Center, allowing users to create multiple pages of controls and customize their layout more easily. This means you can dedicate entire pages to specific functions, like smart home controls, and arrange buttons in the exact position you prefer.
3. Enhanced security features
iOS 18 is also bringing improved security features. Users will be able to lock certain apps behind Face ID, adding another layer of protection to sensitive information. Additionally, Apple is moving the password management feature out of Settings and into its own dedicated Passwords app for easier access.
Is there an iOS 18 release date?
While many were eager to get their hands on these features, the release of iOS 18 wasn’t tied to the “It’s Glowtime” event in September.
Instead, Apple used the event to focus on its hardware launches, while quietly announcing that iOS 18 would be available to the public on September 16, 2024 — a few days before the iPhone 16 and other new devices hit stores on September 20.
How to access the iOS 18 RC
Apple has recently seeded the iOS 18 Release Candidate (RC) to developers, marking one of the final stages before the official public release. This version is crucial for developers and testers as it offers a near-final look at the new features and improvements that iOS 18 will bring.
Available to registered developers through the Beta Updates section in the Settings app, the iOS 18 RC allows developers to test the software and ensure app compatibility before its general release on September 16, 2024.
Here’s how you can access it:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Navigate to Software Update.
- Tap on the Beta Updates option.
- Toggle on the iOS 18 Developer Beta setting.
The iOS 18 RC also includes a host of other features that improve the overall user experience:
- Safari highlights: Safari now has a highlights feature that summarizes key information from articles and web pages, making it easier to find important content quickly.
- Photos app redesign: The Photos app interface has been overhauled, offering a more streamlined, user-friendly design.
- Tap to cash: This feature allows for private and secure money transfers using Apple Cash, providing a seamless peer-to-peer payment experience.
- Gaming mode: A game mode has been added to improve game performance, especially for more demanding titles, making iOS 18 a great update for mobile gamers.
- Siri on AirPods: Users with AirPods will be able to respond to Siri using head gestures, adding a hands-free convenience for basic commands and queries.
Apple Intelligence: The headliner, but not yet fully ready
Perhaps the most important feature of iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI tools that will revolutionize how users interact with their iPhones. Apple Intelligence will bring new writing tools, phone call transcription, and AI-driven suggestions for Messages and Mail.
However, the full rollout of Apple Intelligence won’t happen until iOS 18.1, which is expected in October 2024. Some features, such as Siri enhancements and the AI-powered Image Playground, may not even be available until 2025, as Apple is taking a cautious approach with its AI developments.
For developers who want to install the iOS 18 RC, the process is simple but requires an Apple ID associated with a developer account. Here’s how you can access it:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Navigate to Software Update.
- Tap on the Beta Updates option.
- Toggle on the iOS 18 Developer Beta setting.
Keep in mind that this RC version is primarily intended for developers, as it helps ensure apps work smoothly with the new operating system. The RC is a critical step before the full public release, as it allows Apple to catch any last-minute bugs or issues that could affect the user experience.
Is Apple Intelligence only on iPhone 16?
Release date and supported devices
Apple has confirmed that iOS 18 will be available to download on September 16, 2024, for all devices that supported iOS 17. This includes iPhone models from the iPhone SE (2nd generation) up to the latest iPhone 15 and 16 models. However, only the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and newer models will support all of Apple Intelligence’s advanced features.
Image credits: Apple
