Apple is poised to introduce iOS 18, promising a host of new features, including groundbreaking generative AI capabilities, enhanced customisation options, and a comprehensive redesign. As per the rumour mill, Apple aims to integrate advanced artificial intelligence (AI) into its operating system, marking a substantial leap over the current iOS 17, and positioning the iPhone maker with rivals Samsung and Google. 


iOS 18 Features (Expected)


AI-pple Possibilities


Several media reports, including that of Bloomberg, suggest that the forthcoming update for iPhone and iPad will be heavily AI-focused. Apple's software engineering teams have been tasked with incorporating a myriad of AI-driven features, aiming to redefine the user experience. Although specific details of these features remain under wraps, there is speculation about several potential enhancements. These include a more intuitive Spotlight search, auto-generated playlists in Apple Music, and a sophisticated upgrade to Siri, Apple's virtual assistant.


The move towards integrating AI is not without precedent in the mobile industry. Competitors like Samsung and Google have already embraced generative AI in their devices, offering functionalities such as object manipulation in photos and real-time translation in phone calls. Apple's response to these advancements is eagerly anticipated, with expectations set high for iOS 18 to offer similar, if not more innovative, AI features.


Another anticipated development is the integration of AI into native apps such as Mail and Notes, which may include translation and summarisation functionalities. However, these advanced features might be reserved for newer iPhone models due to their higher memory requirements.


Vision OS Inspiration


Rumours also hint at a design inspiration drawn from Vision OS, the operating system behind the Vision Pro headset. This could mean a shift towards circular icons and a more translucent interface, alongside a redesigned Control Center and a more flexible home screen layout. 


RCS Expected


Moreover, the upcoming iOS update is slated to include support for Rich Communication Services (RCS), enhancing the quality of communication between iPhone users and Android devices. This feature is expected to roll out with iOS 18, providing improved media-sharing capabilities, read receipts, typing indicators, and location sharing within text threads.


In addition to native app enhancements, Apple is rumoured to be developing a proprietary large language model, codenamed Ajax. This model could offer ChatGPT-like interactions and significantly improve Siri's conversational abilities.


When Will Apple Roll Out iOS 18?


Apple is expected to announce iOS 18 at its upcoming WWDC 2024 event on June 10. It's safe to speculate that iOS 18 will start rolling out after Apple introduces the iPhone 16 series later this year, perhaps in September.


ALSO READ: WWDC 2024: When, How To Watch Apple's iOS 18 Launch Event


Which Phones Will Support iOS 18?


Apart from the iPhone 16 series, these older iPhone models are expected to support iOS 18, judging from previous software rollout trends from the Cupertino giant:



  • iPhone XS

  • iPhone XS Max

  • iPhone XR

  • iPhone SE (2nd generation)

  • iPhone SE (3rd generation)

  • 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 14

  • iPhone 14 Plus

  • iPhone 14 Pro

  • iPhone 14 Pro Max

  • iPhone 15

  • iPhone 15 Plus

  • iPhone 15 Pro

  • iPhone 15 Pro Max