iOS 18 releases today: When and how to download it
Apple is set to release its latest operating system, iOS 18, later today. The update will be available from around 10:30pm IST for iPhone XS and newer models. Users can access it in the Settings app under General > Software Update. This highly anticipated release follows over three months of beta testing and promises a host of new features.
Home screen customization and Control Center revamp
The first major feature of iOS 18 is the ability to customize the home screen. Users can now place app icons anywhere on the grid and choose from new "Dark" and "Tinted" options for recoloring these icons. Additionally, the Control Center has been redesigned to offer more customization options, including rearranging and resizing controls across multiple pages.
iMessage enhancements and Photos app redesign
iOS 18 introduces several new features to iMessage, including using any emoji as a Tapback reaction, text effects like "Shake" and "Explode," and formatting options such as bold and underline. The update also allows users to schedule messages for later delivery. Additionally, the Photos app has undergone its most significant redesign yet with an all-in-one layout replacing the previous tabs system.
Enhanced security and new passwords app
For enhanced security, iOS 18 allows users to lock any app behind Face ID, Touch ID, or an iPhone's passcode. It also introduces a feature to hide apps in a locked folder. The update includes a new Passwords app that consolidates features previously available through the iCloud Keychain in the Settings app, simplifying management of passwords and two-factor authentication codes.
Distraction Control and Game Mode
iOS 18 introduces a Distraction Control feature in Safari that can be used to hide certain website elements like newsletter sign-up forms and cookie permission prompts. However, it's not designed to be an ad blocker. The update also brings Game Mode, first seen on the Mac, to the iPhone. This feature minimizes background activity during gameplay for consistently high frame rates and reduces audio latency with AirPods.
Preparations for iOS 18 update
Before updating to iOS 18, users are advised to ensure their iPhone has sufficient storage space and is fully charged. A backup of the device is also recommended to secure data in case of any complications during the update process. It's important to note that the initial release of iOS 18 will not include Apple Intelligence features, which are set to be introduced in parts starting with iOS 18.1 expected sometime in October.
