Apple has officially started the rollout of iOS 18, its latest operating system introduced at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June this year. The update brings several new changes, including an intelligent Siri and more control on the home screen. While the recently launched iPhone 16 series will come preloaded with iOS 18, eligible older generation models will start receiving the update from September 16.
Here is a detailed guide on how to download iOS 18, eligible devices, and new features brought by the new OS to Apple devices.
How to download the iOS 18 update on your iPhone?
To download the latest iOS update, eligible iPhone users need to follow these simple steps:
– Go to the Settings option on your phone
– Scroll down to ‘General’
– Tap on “Software Update” option
– You will see iOS 18 update available. Please note, the update will only be available for eligible devices.
– Next, tap “Download and Install” to begin the installation process. You may need to enter your passcode to complete the process.
– The download will complete in the background.
Although Apple has announced September 16 as the official release date for iOS 18, the rollout may take some more time depending on your geographical location and other factors.
iOS 18 update: Eligible devices
iOS 18 will be available for over 25 devices, including the iPhone 11 series and the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation), covering a large base of older iPhone users. The recently launched iPhone 16 series will come preloaded with the latest version of the operating system.
iPhone 16 Series
iPhone 15 Series
iPhone 14 Series
iPhone 13 Series
iPhone 12 Series
iPhone 11 Series
iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone SE (3rd generation)
Apple has limited the availability of some iOS features, including Apple Intelligence features, which will only be available on the iPhone 15 and newer models.
iOS 18 update: What’s inside
home screen
iOS 18 comes with an updated home screen that lets users rearrange apps and widgets with more flexibility. Users can also change the color theme and apply unique app icons specifically for dark mode, giving a personal touch.
Control Center
The redesigned Control Center features an updated set of controls accessed via a swipe-up gesture. The new design also lets users access these settings directly from the lock screen using the action buttons. Additionally, users can also organize the control tiles to their liking.
Photo App
iPhone’s Photos app has received a major update in iOS 18. The app has smart features that help users curate collections, streamlining the photo management process.
Sir, I
iOS 18 introduces Siri with gesture-based interactions, enabling more hands-free functionality.
game mode
Apple is also bringing Game Mode to iPhones with iOS 18, which features performance optimisation based on game requirements.
Mail App
Apple has also updated its Mail app, introducing on-device categorisation features to help organise emails into groups – primary, transactional, updates and promotions.
Apple Intelligence
The beta release of the initial Apple Intelligence features will be released in the first iOS 18 update expected next month.
