Apple will introduce the new iOS 18 as the biggest update for iPhone

Apple's much-anticipated WWDC event in June is just around the corner. Scheduled between June 10 to 14, Apple is poised to unveil its latest innovations. Among the most anticipated announcements is the debut of iOS 18, the newest iteration of Apple's iPhone operating system. Codenamed "Crystal," the new iOS update is said to be the biggest overhaul for iPhones ever, boasting a complete UI revamp, powerful AI integration, and a focus on user experience.

According to analyst Mark Gurman, the new iOS 18 will revamp the iPhone experience with AI-driven features, new updates RCS, and more. Let's take a detailed look at everything speculated and rumoured, and what we can expect with the new iOS update.

AI enhancements

In line with the industry's growing focus on artificial intelligence (AI), iOS 18 is expected to leverage AI capabilities across native apps and services. While specifics remain under wraps, users can anticipate enhanced features powered by AI, such as AI-generated transcripts in Apple Podcasts and improved conversational experiences with Siri.

Furthermore, iOS 18 is also rumoured to introduce generative AI capabilities to first-party apps like Mail and Notes, enabling features such as automatic summarization and translation directly within these applications. This integration of AI promises to enhance productivity and convenience for users, streamlining everyday tasks and interactions.

Updates to Apple Maps

Another most significant highlight of iOS 18 is the integration of topographic maps into the Apple Maps app, extending a feature initially introduced in watchOS. This expansion brings detailed trail information, elevation contours, and landmarks to iOS, macOS, and visionOS platforms. Outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers will find these maps invaluable for precision navigation during activities like hiking, further enhancing the utility of Apple's mapping services.

Moreover, iOS 18 is set to introduce custom route creation capabilities to Apple Maps, empowering users to design personalised routes for their journeys. This feature will offer users greater flexibility and control over their navigation experience, allowing them to tailor routes according to their preferences and specific requirements.

New home screen

Beyond mapping upgrades, iOS 18 promises a slew of groundbreaking updates aimed at redefining the iPhone user experience. Reports suggest that Apple is poised to revolutionise the iOS interface, with a focus on customization and user-centric design elements. For the first time, users may have the freedom to arrange app icons on the home screen, introducing a level of flexibility and personalization previously unseen on iOS devices.

Rich Communication Services

Additionally, iOS 18 is rumoured to adopt the Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging standard, enabling advanced messaging features like typing indicators and read receipts to function seamlessly across platforms. This move reflects Apple's commitment to delivering a best-in-class messaging experience to its users, ensuring compatibility and interoperability with other messaging platforms.

iOS 18 eligibility

As for the iOS 18 compatibility, the update is expected to support an extensive range of iPhones, including over 20 models. However, it's likely that older devices such as the iPhone XS and XR may not fulfil the compatibility requirements. The projected list of iPhone models eligible for the iOS 18 update includes:

- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max

Meanwhile, it's important to note that all the expected features and updates are currently based on rumours, and WWDC 2024 will provide a clearer picture of what iOS 18 holds for users. However, with the anticipated focus on AI integration, one thing is certain: iOS 18, Apple's next-generation operating system, is poised to potentially redefine the iPhone experience for years to come. Its emphasis on visual aesthetics, AI integration, and user-centric features could deliver a significant upgrade to iPhone users.