Apple's iOS 18 update to overhaul native apps on iPhones
Apple is preparing to reveal its latest operating system, iOS 18, at the upcoming WWDC 2024 developer conference, on June 10. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the tech giant plans a significant overhaul of several native apps including Mail, Notes, Photos, and Fitness. This update is being touted as the most substantial in iOS history as it will introduce new AI features and a Siri revamp designed to simplify daily tasks for users.
iPadOS 18 to get new features as well
In addition to the iOS 18 enhancements, Apple is reportedly developing substantial updates for iPadOS 18. A notable feature among these is the introduction of a native calculator app for the iPad, set to become a standard feature on tablets. This new addition is expected to be well-received by iPad users. Additionally, both iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 will provide flexibility to position app icons anywhere on the homescreen, beyond the traditional grid layout.
Don't expect a revamp on the scale of iOS 7
Gurman advises users not to expect a revamp on the scale of iOS 7 with upcoming updates. During the iOS 7 update cycle, Apple dismissed software chief Scot Forstall and tasked design head Jony Ive with reimagining iOS following the Apple Maps debacle. Gurman further clarified that while iOS 18 will introduce exciting changes, it won't include as many design alterations as seen in iOS 7, which marked a shift from skeuomorphic designs inspired by real-world objects for app icons.
