iOS 18: Release Date, Features, and Everything You Need to Know
Discover the exciting new features, release date, and changelogs of Apple's iOS 18, including enhanced Control Center, Call Recording, app updates, and more.
Updated : 2 months ago
What’s New in iOS 18: Complete set of Change logs
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Apple Intelligence | iOS 18 introduces Apple Intelligence, which draws on your personal context to provide the most relevant and helpful insights, available on iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. |
| Writing, Focus, and Communication | New writing tools and language capabilities help users write, summarize longer texts, and prioritize notifications effectively. |
| Delightful Images | Create personalized images, Genmoji for conversations, or revisit favorite moments through memory movies created just for you. |
| The New Siri | iOS 18 enhances Siri with richer language understanding and contextual awareness, making Siri more capable and helpful than ever. |
| Customization | Rearrange apps and widgets to personalize your Home Screen layout. |
| New Look for App Icons | iOS 18 introduces a sleek dark look for app icons and widgets. Tint them with any color or let iOS suggest a complementary color for your wallpaper. |
| Locked and Hidden Apps | New privacy options allow you to lock sensitive apps or hide them from others using your device. |
| Control Center Update | The redesigned Control Center includes new control groups, accessible with a single continuous swipe, along with expanded customization options. |
| Controls Gallery | Add more controls from the gallery, featuring new controls from favorite apps. |
| Photos | Photos are organized automatically into collections based on topics like recent days, people, pets, and trips. |
| Messages | Playful, animated effects can be applied to any text or emoji in iMessage, along with options to schedule messages with "Send Later". RCS support also brings enhanced media and read receipts for non-iMessage users. |
| Safari | Safari introduces Highlights, a feature that automatically detects relevant information on a webpage and highlights it, along with an enhanced Reader mode that includes a table of contents and a high-level summary. |
| Passwords App | All your credentials, including passwords and security alerts, are stored securely in the Passwords app, synced across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and even Windows devices. |
| Maps | Save hikes and notes for offline access, making it easier to explore even without a data connection. |
| Game Mode | Game Mode minimizes background activity to sustain high frame rates, reduces audio latency with AirPods, and makes game controllers more responsive for a superior gaming experience. |
| Phone | Live call transcription and recording can be done directly from the Phone app. You can also search your call history more easily, switch SIM cards seamlessly, and search for contacts or calls directly from the keypad. |
| Wallet | Redesigned event tickets now include venue details and recommendations from Apple apps, making it easier to navigate your events. |
| AirPods | Hands-free Siri interactions are now available, along with voice isolation to make calls clearer and personalized spatial audio for gaming. |
| Notes | Collapsible sections make it easier to manage long notes, and you can solve mathematical expressions directly within your notes. |
| Journal | Track your journaling goals, view your writing streaks, and find past entries quickly with enhanced sorting and search features. |
| Apple TV App | Select "InSight" in the Apple TV app to learn more about the actors and music as it plays onscreen. This feature is also available when using iPhone as a remote for Apple TV 4K. |
| Home App | Guest access allows you to manage how people enter your home, with specific access to garage openers, alarms, and door locks, depending on your preferences. |
| Privacy and Security | The redesigned Privacy and Security settings allow users to control how much information is shared with apps, including which contacts are shared. |
| Accessibility | Eye Tracking enables control of the iPhone using only your eyes, while Music Haptics syncs the Taptic Engine with the rhythm of songs for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Vocal Shortcuts assist individuals with atypical speech by allowing sounds to trigger specific actions. |
| Calculator | The all-new Maths Notes calculator includes a portrait mode for the scientific calculator, unit conversion, and a history feature. |
| Calendar | A redesigned month view provides a clearer overview of your schedule, and now you can manage reminders directly from within the Calendar app. |
| Freeform | Scenes in Freeform help organize and present boards section by section, while diagramming mode makes forming connections on your canvas easier. |
| SharePlay | Enhanced screen sharing lets you draw on someone else’s screen or take control of their screen to guide them through tasks. |
Apple's iOS 18 is set to introduce a host of new features that aim to improve user experience and system performance. Announced on June 10, 2024, iOS 18 brings significant upgrades to Control Center, app functionalities, and AI-driven capabilities. With a public release date of September 16, 2024, this update is expected to roll out globally, including in India.
Release Date in India
The highly anticipated iOS 18 will officially launch on September 16, 2024, in India, bringing exciting new features and system improvements to all compatible iPhone models.
Key Features of iOS 18
iOS 18 introduces a range of new features that enhance user interaction, customization, and app performance. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable updates:
Home Screen and Icon Customization
With iOS 18, users now have the ability to place icons anywhere on the home screen grid, allowing for a more personalized layout. Additionally, a new theme engine applies a single tint color to icons and widgets for a unified look.
Revamped Control Center
Control Center gets a complete redesign in iOS 18, offering multiple pages, third-party app support, and extensive customization options. You can now modify essential shortcuts like the flashlight and camera to suit your needs.
Call Recording in iOS 18: A Complete Guide
With iOS 18, Apple has introduced a long-awaited feature: native call recording. This new functionality allows users to record both incoming and outgoing calls directly from the Phone app, making it easier to keep track of important conversations. Here's how you can use this feature and what you need to know about call recording in iOS 18.
How to Enable Call Recording
Follow these steps to enable call recording on your iPhone running iOS 18:
- Open the Settings app: Start by going to your iPhone’s Settings app.
- Navigate to the Phone settings: Scroll down and tap on the "Phone" section.
- Turn on Call Recording: In the Phone settings, look for the “Call Recording” option. Toggle it on to enable recording for all calls.
How to Record a Call
Once call recording is enabled, follow these steps to start recording your calls:
- For Incoming Calls: When you receive a call, a record button will appear on your call screen. Tap the record button to start recording the conversation.
- For Outgoing Calls: When you make a call, the record button will be available once the call connects. Tap the button to begin recording.
- Stop Recording: You can stop the recording at any time by tapping the same record button during the call.
Where to Find Your Recorded Calls
All recorded calls are securely stored on your iPhone. You can access them by:
- Opening the Phone app.
- Going to the Recents tab.
- Finding the call you recorded and tapping the info icon (i) next to it.
- In the call details, you’ll see an option to play or share the recorded audio.
Legal Considerations
It's important to note that call recording laws vary depending on your region. In many areas, it is required to inform all parties on the call that the conversation is being recorded. Always check your local laws to ensure compliance with call recording regulations.
Limitations of Call Recording in iOS 18
While this feature is incredibly useful, there are a few limitations:
- Call recording is not available for FaceTime audio or video calls.
- Calls recorded through third-party apps, such as WhatsApp or Skype, cannot be captured using this feature.
- Recording may not be supported in some countries or regions due to local restrictions.
Conclusion
The native call recording feature in iOS 18 is a powerful tool for professionals and individuals who need to document their conversations. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily enable and use call recording, making sure you adhere to all legal guidelines in your area.
App Upgrades: Safari, Mail, Photos, and More
Safari introduces a new Web Eraser feature, similar to ad-blockers, while an intelligent search tool uses AI to summarize webpage content. Major upgrades are also expected for apps like Mail, Photos, Fitness, and Notes, improving both functionality and user experience.
Enhanced System Features
iOS 18 brings exciting system-level improvements, including native call recording capabilities and a customizable Control Center. Users can now design their own Control Center layout to prioritize frequently used controls.
AI-Driven Enhancements
AI continues to play a significant role in iOS 18, enhancing user interaction and productivity. Although there are limited APIs for developers, features like the AI-assisted summary tool in Safari highlight Apple’s focus on integrating machine learning into everyday tasks.
Known Issues with iOS 18 Beta
As with any new software release, the iOS 18 beta may have some stability issues. Apple is expected to address these in future updates, including the release of iOS 18.1.
New Features in iOS 18
| Feature/Change | Description |
|---|---|
| Home Screen Customization | Icons can be placed anywhere on the grid, allowing for more flexibility in layout design. Single tint color for icons and widgets. |
| Control Center Redesign | Introduces multiple pages, third-party app support, and customization options for flashlight and camera buttons. |
| Safari Web Eraser | New ad-blocking feature with intelligent search tool powered by AI to summarize content. |
| App Updates | Major upgrades expected for Safari, Mail, Photos, Fitness, and Notes. |
| Call Recording | Native call recording feature now available. |
| AI Enhancements | Improved AI-driven features, including summarization tools and more intelligent system behavior. |
Supported Devices
| Device |
|---|
| iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max |
| iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max |
| iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max |
| iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max |
| iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max |
| iPhone SE (3rd and 2nd generation) |
Frequently Asked Questions about iOS 18
1. What is the release date of iOS 18?
iOS 18 is expected to be released to the public on September 16, 2024. The update will roll out globally, including in India, and will be available for all compatible iPhones.
2. How do I update my iPhone to iOS 18?
To update to iOS 18, go to your iPhone’s Settings > General > Software Update. If the update is available, simply click "Download and Install" to start the process.
3. Which iPhones are compatible with iOS 18?
iOS 18 is compatible with iPhone 15 models, iPhone 14 models, iPhone 13 models, iPhone 12 models, iPhone 11, and iPhone SE (2nd generation or later).
4. What are the new features in iOS 18?
iOS 18 introduces several new features, including a redesigned Control Center, customizable app icons, Apple Intelligence, new messaging tools, enhanced Safari, and live call transcription in the Phone app.
5. Can I record phone calls on iOS 18?
Yes, iOS 18 introduces a native call recording feature that allows users to record incoming and outgoing calls directly from the Phone app.
6. How does Apple Intelligence work in iOS 18?
Apple Intelligence draws on your personal context to offer relevant suggestions and insights. It adapts to your behavior and provides information that’s most helpful based on your interactions with your device.
7. How do I customize the Control Center in iOS 18?
In iOS 18, you can customize the Control Center by adding or rearranging controls from the Control Gallery. You can also resize controls or build groups of controls that are just a swipe away.
8. What is the Safari Highlights feature in iOS 18?
Safari Highlights automatically detects relevant information on a webpage, such as people, music, movies, and TV shows, and displays quick links to help you learn more while browsing.
9. What’s new in Messages in iOS 18?
iOS 18 introduces new playful, animated text effects, support for RCS messaging, and the ability to schedule messages with "Send Later." This feature allows you to specify a time for your message to be sent.
10. How do I create custom icons and widgets in iOS 18?
With iOS 18, users can customize app icons and widgets by tinting them with a color of their choice or letting iOS suggest a color that complements the wallpaper. You can also enlarge apps and widgets for better visibility.
11. How do I access Live Voicemail in iOS 18?
Live Voicemail in iOS 18 provides real-time transcription of voicemails as they are being left, allowing users to decide whether to pick up the call or let the voicemail finish recording.
12. How does Game Mode improve gaming in iOS 18?
Game Mode minimizes background activity to sustain high frame rates and reduces audio latency when using AirPods. It also makes wireless game controllers more responsive for a superior gaming experience.
13. How do I manage privacy settings in iOS 18?
iOS 18 introduces a redesigned Privacy and Security settings menu, allowing users to control how much information apps can access. You can now decide which contacts to share with an app, rather than giving access to your entire contact list.
14. What is the new Journal app in iOS 18?
The Journal app in iOS 18 helps users track their well-being by logging their state of mind and other personal insights. Users can also view their journaling streaks and entries in a calendar format.
15. Can I collapse sections in Notes in iOS 18?
Yes, iOS 18 adds collapsible sections in the Notes app, making it easier to manage lengthy notes by hiding text under collapsible headers.
16. How do I save maps for offline use in iOS 18?
iOS 18 allows users to save maps, including hiking trails, for offline access. You can also add personal notes to the maps for reference during your adventures.
17. What improvements were made to the Calculator app in iOS 18?
iOS 18 introduces a new Maths Notes calculator with unit conversion, history tracking, and a new portrait mode for the scientific calculator, making calculations easier and more efficient.
18. How does SharePlay work in iOS 18?
In iOS 18, SharePlay allows users to share their screens more interactively. You can now draw on someone’s screen to guide them or take control of their screen to help them complete tasks.
19. How can I hide apps in iOS 18?
iOS 18 allows users to hide sensitive apps from others using their device. You can lock these apps or make them invisible on the Home Screen to protect your privacy.
20. Can I schedule messages in iOS 18?
Yes, iOS 18 allows you to schedule messages with the "Send Later" feature. You can choose a specific time for your message to be sent, ensuring important messages are delivered at the right moment.
