iOS 18: Explore New Features on Your Eligible Devices

Apple has officially rolled out iOS 18, which is now ready for eligible iPhones to download at no cost via the Software Update settings.

If you’re considering getting one of the new iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro models, set to launch on September 20, these will come with iOS 18 already installed.

It’s important to note that not every iPhone will be compatible with this latest update, and even devices that can run it may miss out on certain advanced features labeled as “Apple Intelligence.”

This decision aligns with Apple’s ongoing strategy to phase out support for older models. For example, last year, the “iPhone 8,” “iPhone 8 Plus,” and “iPhone X” became incompatible with iOS 17, preventing their users from accessing new updates.

On a positive note, some older devices can look forward to significant updates, such as an upcoming software release that will enable existing “AirPods Pro” to function as hearing aids, thanks to recent FDA approval.

iPhones eligible for iOS 18:

If your iPhone was compatible with iOS 17, it’s likely that it will also support iOS 18, meaning you won’t need to buy a new phone to get the latest features. Here’s a list of iPhones that can run iOS 18:

• iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS / XS Max
• iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max

If your device is an “iPhone 8” or “iPhone X” from 2017 or earlier, you’ll be unable to upgrade to iOS 18. However, your phone will continue to operate normally, just without the latest features.

Features of Apple Intelligence:

While iOS 18 is accessible on many devices, some of the “Apple Intelligence” features will be limited to the newer iPhone models at launch. Only the “iPhone 15 Pro,” “iPhone 15 Pro Max,” and the forthcoming iPhone 16 models will be able to utilize these advanced capabilities initially.

Availability of Apple Intelligence features:

If your iPhone supports Apple Intelligence, you can expect some features to start rolling out in October, beginning with support for the English language in the U.S. By December, localized English versions will also be available in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK. Additional language offerings, such as Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish, will be introduced next year. Unfortunately, Apple Intelligence is not expected to launch in the EU in the near future due to ongoing regulatory challenges.

Notable features included in iOS 18:

While “Apple Intelligence” may steal the spotlight, iOS 18 introduces many other exciting features that you can enjoy right now:

• Passwords app: Keep your passwords and credentials secure in one location with improved accessibility.
• Enhanced Messages: iMessage introduces support for bold, italic, underline, and strikethrough text, as well as animations and improved compatibility with Android through “RCS.”
• Overhauled Photos library: A redesigned Photos app enables you to create and pin custom collections, making it easier to organize your images.
• Customized home screen: Personalize your app layout by rearranging icons around the screen’s perimeter and adding color tints to the apps.