Everything you need to know about the iOS 18 update

The highly anticipated iOS 18 update from Apple is scheduled for June. With a whole range of AI-based features and major improvements, iOS 18 promises to provide a significant boost to iPhone efficiency.

The big launch of iOS 18 and Beta Releases

At the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2024, the long-awaited update for the iPhone is finally unveiled. Developers can shortly thereafter get their hands on the first betas. The public beta is expected to be released a bit later, likely in July. However, throughout the summer of 2024, more and more new betas will become available. As usual, we can expect the official release in September of this year.

Compatible Devices for iOS 18

We cannot currently confirm which devices will be eligible for the iOS 18 update. This information will be revealed only at the official announcement. What we do know is that the following devices have received the iOS 17 update:

• iPhone 15-serie (standard equipped with iOS 17)
• iPhone 14-serie
• iPhone 13-serie
• iPhone 12-serie
• iPhone 11-serie
• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS
• iPhone SE 2020 
• iPhone SE 2022

The iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X were excluded from the iOS 17 update.

The iPhone 11 and newer models are expected to be updated to iOS 18. However, the future of the iPhone XR and iPhone XS (Max) remains uncertain. These devices have been on the market since 2018 and will be six years old upon the release of iOS 18. Apple typically promises five years of software updates for its devices.

Yet, there is a possibility that the iPhone XR and iPhone XS (Max) may still receive an update, considering the presence of the powerful A12 Bionic chip. Previous developments have shown that Apple often requires the presence of a Bionic chip as a minimum requirement for new features. It is also not uncommon for iPhones to continue receiving updates for up to seven years, as was previously the case with the iPhone 6s (Plus).

However, we can only confirm with 100% certainty which devices will receive iOS 18 after Apple's official announcement during the WWDC event.

Predictions about the features of iOS 18

Most speculations about iOS 18 focus on the AI capabilities expected to be found in Siri, Apple Music, and other services.

1. Significant upgrade for Siri

Siri often receives criticism for its performance, with Apple's virtual assistant being noted to lag behind competitors like Google and generative AI services such as ChatGPT. Nevertheless, Apple is working hard on improvements. The AI team, led by Johnny Giannandrea, invests significant amounts in artificial intelligence and generative AI on a daily basis. We're talking about millions per day.

2. Completely new language models

The Siri team at Apple is working on developing new language models, enabling the execution of much more complex tasks. With this new language model, for example, you could create a GIF in one step based on the last five photos you've taken.

Apple is investing in AI for developers and end users

Apple is not only working on AI features for users but also for developers. It seems that AI will soon be able to generate entire blocks of code. Additionally, AI technology is being developed for app testing

Innovation in messaging through RCS

With iMessage unavailable on Android, users often encounter issues communicating between iOS and Android. While SMS messages can be sent to Android and vice versa, this is far from secure. Therefore, iOS 18 will support RCS.

Embracing RCS is a significant step forward. Not only is it more secure, with the ability to lock conversations behind end-to-end encryption, but it also offers far more features than SMS and MMS ever will.

Functions RCS

• The ability to send and receive photos and videos in higher resolution.
• Ability to send and receive audio messages.
• See when others are typing.
• Receive read receipts for sent messages.
• Send messages via Wi-Fi between iPhones and Android devices.
• Improved group chats, including the option for iPhone users to leave groups with Android users participating.

Potential issues and solutions on iOS 18

Unfortunately, following the release of the iOS 18 update, as with previous updates, some issues may arise. These could include software bugs and compatibility issues with older devices. On the positive side, such major updates often have the potential to resolve existing problems. More information about possible issues and solutions will only be available after the iOS update.

In the future, we will prepare a blog focusing on common complaints about this update, so repair shops can prepare and provide support.

Stay updated on the latest developments and updates regarding iOS 18 and more by keeping an eye on our blogs. We are ready to provide you with tips, solutions, and support for any issues that may arise after the release of this major update.