Apple has officially rolled out iOS 18, the latest update for iPhone users, just in time for the anticipated release of the iPhone 16. This update brings a suite of new features, including Home Screen customization, updates to the Messages app, and a revamped Photos app, among other enhancements. While the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence feature was initially teased at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, it will not be included in this release.
Home Screen and Control Center Makeover
Apple is elevating the iPhone home screen experience with iOS 18, allowing users to achieve an aesthetic layout. With the new update, users can now position app icons and widgets more freely, customizing their home screen to fit their personal style. Additionally, icons and widgets can be resized, and users have the option to hide the app names beneath them.
Color tinting options are also introduced, enabling users to apply any color to their apps and widgets or receive color suggestions that complement their wallpaper. Dark Mode has been extended to icons, which will now adapt automatically when Dark Mode is activated or remain consistently dark.
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The Control Center also benefits from this update, featuring grouped controls, resizable options, a gallery display for managing controls, and enhanced support for third-party app controls.
Photos App Redesign
iOS 18 brings a fresh look to the Photos app, now featuring organized collections by topic. Users can pin and further customize these collections or view photos by “recent days.” The new filter button helps users sort through media types, favorites, and other categories to reduce clutter.
New Standalone Passwords App
The Passwords feature has been upgraded with a new standalone app in iOS 18. Previously located in Settings, Passwords can now be accessed more conveniently. The app also supports setting up two-factor authentication verification codes.
Revamped Messages App
The Messages app receives a substantial update in iOS 18, enhancing text effects with new animated options such as ripples and nods for text, words, and emojis. Users can now format their messages with bold, underline, strikethrough, or italics.
Additional “Tapback” reactions include more emojis and stickers, with improved access to frequently used Tapbacks. The new “send later” feature allows users to schedule messages for future delivery.
The update also introduces support for RCS (Rich Communication Services), providing delivery and read receipts, as well as higher resolution for photos and videos when messaging non-iPhone users.
Apple Intelligence Delayed
Despite high expectations, Apple Intelligence, which was first announced at WWDC, will not be part of the iOS 18 release. According to Apple, this AI-powered feature will debut with iOS 18.1 next month. Once available, it will integrate with Siri, Photos, and various apps to assist with tasks such as email composition, file organization, and even generating AI-created emojis called “Genmojis” and a new Image Playground.
Additional Updates and Features
iOS 18 also includes several notable improvements:
– Live Audio Transcriptions: Real-time text transcriptions of audio content.
– Maps Enhancements: Updated navigation and location features.
– “Tap to Cash” in Wallet: Simplified financial transactions.
– Adjustable Flashlight Beam Width: Customizable flashlight settings.
– Restart Option in Control Center: Easy phone restart feature.
– Custom Lock Screen Controls: Personalized controls on the lock screen.
– This update marks a significant step forward in iPhone customization and functionality, setting the stage for future innovations.
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