Apple Launches Preview of iOS 18: Here are the New Features That You Need to Know

Apple gave iPhone users a glimpse into the future with the preview of iOS 18 at their annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2024). This major update is promising a significant boost in customisation options across all devices, and improved communication tools. Further, the company introduced a powerful new feature called Apple Intelligence. Here are all the iOS 18 features that you need to know . 

Take Charge of Your iPhone: Deeper Customisation and More Power

Get ready to personalise your iPhone like never before! With the latest update, you can craft a user experience that perfectly reflects your style and needs. Here's how:

• Home Screen Freedom: Arrange apps and widgets wherever you like. Place them above the dock for quick access, or create a visually stunning layout that complements your wallpaper.
• Revamp Your Look:  Apply a dark or tinted effect to your app icons and widgets for a fresh aesthetic. You can even adjust their size to match your preference.

Source: Apple Newsroom 

Control Centre Gets a Makeover: You're in Charge Now!

Apple’s iOS 18 further revamps the Control Centre, giving you a more streamlined way to manage your daily tasks. Here's what you can expect:

• Faster access to the essentials: No more digging through menus. Control Centre now features dedicated sections for frequently used functions like media playback, Home controls, and connectivity settings.  Just swipe between them for a smooth experience.
• Your world at your fingertips: Want to unlock your car or fire up your social media camera? No problem! Add controls from your favorite third-party apps directly to Control Center.
• Customisation powerhouse: Take complete control of your Control Centre. Browse the new controls gallery to discover all available options.  Then adjust the layout to your liking: resize controls, and even create custom groups for the things you use most.

Source: Apple Newsroom 

Lock Screen Gets Interactive

The Lock Screen just got even more powerful. Here's how:

• Customise Your Shortcuts:  Now, you can personalise the controls at the bottom of the Lock Screen.Choose from the entire library of options in the Control Center gallery, or remove them completely to create a clean, minimalist look.
• Action Button Advantage (In the Pro Series):  iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users can leverage the Action button for even faster access. With a single tap,  you can instantly activate any Control Center features you've added to your gallery.

Photos Reimagined: Your Memories, Beautifully Organised

• Unified View:  Say goodbye to clutter! Photos now features a streamlined, single view with a familiar grid layout.
• Smart Collections: No more album headaches. Explore your photos by themes with the help of intelligent "Collections." Photos will automatically categorize your memories by topics like "Recent Days," "People & Pets," and more.
• Pin Your Favourites:  Never lose track of cherished moments. Pin your favorite collections to the top for instant access.
• Living Memories:  Immerse yourself in your past. A dynamic carousel displays daily highlights, showcasing your favourite people, places, and treasured moments.
• Customisation at Your Fingertips:  Make Photos your own. Rearrange collections, pin favourites, and personalise the carousel to feature what matters most to you.

Source: Apple Newsroom 

Level Up Your Chats: Messages Packed with Fun and Flexibility

Get ready to transform your conversations with the all-new Messages update on iOS 18, here's what's in store:

• Lively Text Effects: Add personality to your words. Highlight any letter, word, emoji, or even entire phrases with dynamic animations. Make your messages truly pop with effects like "Jitter," "Slam," or "Bling."
• Express Yourself Fully:  Nuance your tone with rich formatting options. Emphasize key points with bold, underline, or italics.  Strikethrough can even add a touch of playful sarcasm.
• Tapback Revolution: Show your appreciation in a whole new way!  Tapback now supports any emoji or sticker you can imagine.  From a classic thumbs-up to a celebratory cake emoji, the possibilities are endless.
• Schedule Your Messages:  Never miss a beat! Compose your message now, and schedule it to deliver at the perfect time,  whether it's a birthday wish or a friendly reminder.

Source: Apple Newsroom 

Stay Connected No Matter What: Introducing Messages via Satellite

Imagine needing to send a message but being completely out of cell service and Wi-Fi. Worry no more! iOS 18 brings you Messages via Satellite, a game-changer for staying connected.

Here's how it works:

• Harnessing the Power of Satellites: This feature leverages the same technology powering emergency satellite features on iPhones.
• Seamless Messaging: When you need to send a text, emoji, or Tapback via iMessage or SMS, Messages via Satellite automatically kicks in, prompting you to connect to the nearest satellite.
• Dynamic Island Keeps You Informed: (iPhone 15 Pro only) The Dynamic Island displays your satellite connection status, so you always know when your message is being beamed up.
• End-to-End Encryption for Peace of Mind: Just like regular iMessages, messages sent via satellite are protected with end-to-end encryption, ensuring your privacy.

Source: Apple Newsroom 

Your Passwords, Elevated: Introducing the All-New Passwords App

Say goodbye to scattered passwords and hello to streamlined security! iOS 18 introduces the Passwords app, which will be your one-stop place for managing all your credentials.

This new app is Built on the trusted foundation of Keychain, and app offers a host of improvements which are:

• Centralised Hub: Access your passwords, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes all in one convenient location. No more hunting through settings!
• Security Made Simple: The Passwords app keeps you informed. Receive alerts for weak passwords, reused credentials, and even those exposed in data breaches. Proactive security for peace of mind.
• Effortless Management: The intuitive interface makes managing your passwords a breeze. It's the security solution you'll never know you needed!

Source: Apple Newsroom 

Introducing Apple Intelligence: Your iPhone Gets Smarter

Get ready for a revolution in the way you interact with your iPhone! Apple Intelligence, seamlessly woven into iOS 18, harnesses the power of cutting-edge technology to make your communication sharper and more efficient.  Here's what you can expect:

• Built-in Brilliance:  Apple Intelligence prioritizes privacy from the start. This powerful feature operates entirely on your device, so your data stays secure.
• Writing Reinvented: Introducing systemwide Writing Tools! Effortlessly rewrite, proofread, and summarise text across various apps,  from Notes and Mail to Pages and even third-party favorites.
• Effortless Communication:  Apple Intelligence empowers you to express yourself with confidence. Craft clear, concise messages and ensure your writing shines in every situation.

Source: Apple Newsroom 

What is the Availability of iOS 18?

iOS 18 will be available in two stages:

• Public Beta: Starting next month, you can sign up for the public beta through the Apple Beta Software Program at their website. 
• Final Release: iOS 18 will be available as a free software update for iPhone Xs and later this fall.

Note: Apple Intelligence will be available in beta on a limited set of devices including iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPad and Mac with M1 and later.

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