Apple is set to release its next major iPhone software update, iOS 18, which is anticipated to be the most significant update in the company’s history. This update includes a variety of redesigns and new features, such as live transcriptions of Voice Notes and the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence, a feature expected to drive the sales of the upcoming iPhone 16 series.
The software’s importance is underscored by the fact that it could significantly influence consumer interest in the new iPhone models.
iOS 18 will be compatible with all devices currently running iOS 17, although some advanced features, including Apple Intelligence, will be limited to the latest iPhone models, specifically the iPhone 16 series and the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. This ensures that even older devices can benefit from the update, though with some restrictions on the newest innovations.
For developers, iOS 18 is already available for testing, along with a parallel release of iOS 18.1, which provides the first glimpse of Apple Intelligence. The developer community has access to the fifth beta version of iOS 18 and the first beta of iOS 18.1, allowing them to explore and test the new features before the public release.
The general public can access the third public beta of iOS 18, which corresponds to the fifth developer beta. While the beta version appears stable, users are advised not to install it on their primary devices due to potential issues like faster battery drain and incompatible apps. Installation is available through the Apple beta program, but caution is recommended.
As for the official release, it is expected to coincide with the launch of the iPhone 16 series. Historically, Apple has released new iPhones in September, with software updates typically becoming available a few days before the devices go on sale. Based on this pattern, the general release of iOS 18 is anticipated on Monday, September 16, with the iPhone 16 series expected to follow on Friday, September 20.
