In just four months, Apple is set to unveil iOS 18, the upcoming software that will power the iPhone and become available to users in the fall. This year's update is expected to be exceptional, potentially surpassing previous free updates in terms of significance. In the past, operating systems like the Mac's OSX were not offered for free, highlighting the magnitude of this year's release.
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, who shared insights in his Power On newsletter and was brought to light by 9to5Mac, Apple insiders view the new operating system as one of the largest updates in the company's history. This anticipation sets the stage for an exciting experience at Apple's developers conference in June.
So, what can we expect from iOS 18? Well, it seems that Apple is dedicating substantial efforts to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the iPhone. While the iPhone already utilizes machine learning, which Apple refers to as AI, this year will see the introduction of generative AI.
Gurman previously mentioned an upgraded Siri that will demonstrate enhanced intelligence and language processing capabilities. Additionally, features such as auto-completion in Messages and self-generating playlists in Apple Music are expected. The implementation of generative AI will extend beyond these examples and also apply to apps like Keynote, Pages, Numbers, and even Xcode, making it easier for developers to create new applications.
While details remain under wraps, Gurman reports that Apple's head of software engineering, Craig Federighi, hinted at ambitious changes throughout the operating system. This suggests that iOS 18, codenamed 'Crystal,' will bring about significant improvements in various areas.
Interestingly, past years have been focused on reliability and performance enhancements rather than introducing groundbreaking new features. However, it appears that this year will be different. Apple has been making promising moves, despite a minor setback with the second beta version of iOS 17.3, which was quickly rectified. The general release went as planned and iOS 17.4 is on track to bring substantial changes.
While Apple is known for keeping details tightly guarded, there may be more information about iOS 18 between now and June. Nonetheless, the initial impressions are incredibly exciting.
In an update from February 6, additional reports align with our previous insights. Esat Dedezade of Stuff has compiled a comprehensive report, confirming the likelihood of iOS 18 being unveiled in four months' time. Traditionally, Apple announces iOS updates during its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which typically takes place in early June. It is highly probable that we will catch our first glimpse of iOS 18 on either Monday, June 3, or Monday, June 10, with the latter being more likely.
Dedezade also points out that AI will play a crucial role in iOS 18, just as it did in Samsung's recent release of the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Rumors suggest that Apple plans to launch its own AI chatbot later this year, with speculations of using a large-language model to revitalize Siri. Additionally, the advanced silicon expected in the iPhone 16 series should ensure seamless on-device performance for the updated AI functionality. Exciting times lie ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as we eagerly await the arrival of iOS 18 and the extraordinary features it promises to deliver.
