Apple has released a new major version of iOS every year since the iPhone’s debut, and 2024 is no different.
The new version is, predictably, known as iOS 18. It includes several minor tweaks that will roll out to all compatible iPhone models, but only the latest phones will get the new set of AI features.
At the launch of the iPhone 16, Apple confirmed a release date for both iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence, but they are not the same. Here’s everything you need to know.
When will iOS 18 be released?
Apple announced a new version of iOS at the Worldwide Developers Conference, better known as WWDC June 10, 2024.
All new iPhone 16 models will ship with the new version, while owners of existing handsets (which are still compatible) can update their devices from September 16.
However, you will have to wait a little longer for the new features of Apple Intelligence. These will be rolled out indoors Octoberinitially only for members of the Apple Beta program (read more on our sister site, Macworld)before more features are added “in the coming months.”
That date also only applies to US English, although Apple says it will “quickly expand to include localized English in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom in December.” Of course, you can easily set your device and Siri language to US English to access it when it becomes available.
Which iPhones are compatible with iOS 18?
Apple has now confirmed which iPhones will be compatible with iOS 18. Here’s the full list of devices:
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
However, Apple Intelligence will only are available on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max and all four iPhone 16 models.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
What new features will be available in iOS 18?
Apple has announced a flood of new features coming to iOS 18. Here are some of the biggest and best:
- Home screen customization: There will be a lot more flexibility in customizing your home screen, with new controls for app icons, new dark mode icons, and the ability to color app icons to match your wallpaper.
- New control gallery: You even have the option to switch the flashlight and camera on your lock screen.
- New app privacy options: You can lock your apps. Locked apps won’t show notifications or appear in search results or Spotlight suggestions. You can choose to hide them completely if you prefer.
- iMessage changes: New formatting options include bold, italics, and strikethrough. There will also be animated text effects and the option to tap back with an emoji or sticker. You can also schedule messages. As expected, iMessage also gets RCS support.
- Mail is getting a new organizational tool known as on-device categorization. It automatically sorts emails into one of four categories: primary, transactions, updates, and promotions, grouping emails across brands.
- Photos gets its biggest redesign yet, with a new view and new organization tools, including Recent Days, which filters out screenshots and images of items like receipts to show you your best new photos. You can also share entire collections with one tap.
- Maps: New topographic maps are added for walking and hiking.
- Calendar: Reminders can now appear in your calendar.
- Wallet: Tap to Cash allows you to instantly transfer cash from phone to phone.
Apple Intelligence
In addition to the above features, which will be available on all handsets that can support iOS 18, there will be new AI features that will only be available on the iPhone 15 Pro models and the iPhone 16 range.
These new tools will significantly enhance the capabilities of Siri and a range of apps. Read more about it in our separate guide to Apple Intelligence.
