Apple has officially launched iOS 18, and it’s now available for eligible iPhones. Users can download the update for free via the Software Update settings. The upcoming iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models, set to release on September 20, will come pre-installed with iOS 18.
iOS 18 Compatibility
Not all iPhones will support this update, as Apple continues its strategy of gradually phasing out older models. If your iPhone was compatible with iOS 17, it’s likely to support iOS 18. Here’s the list of supported devices:
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- iPhone SE (2nd gen or later)
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS / XS Max
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 16 series (upcoming)
iPhones like the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X won’t be compatible with iOS 18.
Apple Intelligence Features
Though iOS 18 will be available to many devices, advanced Apple Intelligence features will be limited to newer models, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 series. These features will start rolling out in October, with initial availability in the US and additional English-speaking regions by December. Other languages like Chinese, French, and Spanish will be introduced next year, but the features will not be available in the EU for now due to regulatory concerns.
iOS 18 Key Features:
- Passwords app: A secure app for managing passwords and credentials.
- Improved Messages: iMessage now supports bold, italic, underline, and strikethrough, with better compatibility for Android via RCS.
- Revamped Photos library: Enhanced organization with the ability to pin and create custom collections.
- Personalized home screen: Allows for customized app layouts and colorful app icons.
For those with older iPhones, while iOS 18 won’t be available, devices will continue to function as usual without the latest features. Additionally, updates like the hearing aid feature for AirPods Pro are expected later this year.
