Apple has released a new major version of iOS every year since the iPhone made its debut, and that’s no different in 2024.
The new iteration is, predictably, known as iOS 18. It includes several small tweaks that will roll out to all compatible iPhone models, but only the latest phones will get the new suite of AI features.
At the iPhone 16 launch, Apple confirmed a release date for both iOS 18 and Apple Intelligence, but they’re not the same. Here’s everything you need to know.
When will iOS 18 be released?
Apple announced a new version of iOS at its Worldwide Developers Conference, more commonly known as WWDC, on 10 June 2024.
All of the new iPhone 16 models will ship running the new version, while owners of existing handsets (that are still compatible) can update their devices from 16 September.
However, you’ll have to wait a little longer for the new Apple Intelligence features. These will begin rolling out in October, initially only to members of the Apple Beta Program (find out more on our sister site, Macworld), before more features are added “in the coming months”.
That date also only applies to US English, though Apple says it will “quickly expand to include localized English in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the U.K. in December”. Of course, you can simply set your device and Siri language to US English to get access as soon as it becomes available.
Which iPhones will be compatible with iOS 18?
Apple has now confirmed which iPhones will be compatible with iOS 18. Here’s the full list of devices:
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE (2nd gen or later)
However, Apple Intelligence will only be available on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max and all four iPhone 16 models.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
What new features will be available in iOS 18?
Apple announced a deluge of new features that will arrive in iOS 18. Here are some of the biggest and best:
- Home screen customisation: There will be much more flexibility in how you customise your home screen, with new arrangements for app icons, new icons for dark mode and the ability to colour tint app icons to match your wallpaper.
- New controls gallery: You’ll even have the option to swap out the torch and camera on your lock screen.
- New privacy options for apps: You’ll be able to lock your apps. Locked apps won’t show notifications or appear in search or Spotlight suggestions. You can choose to hide them completely if you prefer.
- iMessage changes: New formatting options include bold, italic and strikethrough. There will also be animated text effects and the option to tapback with any emoji or sticker. You’ll be able to schedule messages as well. As expected, iMessage will also get RCS support.
- Mail will receive a new organisational tool, known as on-device categorisation. It’ll automatically sort emails into one of four categories: primary, transactions, updates, and promotions, grouping emails from brands together.
- Photos will receive its biggest redesign ever, with a new display and new organisational tools, including Recent Days, which will filter out screenshots and images of items such as receipts to show you your best new photos. You’ll also be able to share entire collections with a single tap.
- Maps: New topographical maps will be added for hiking and walking.
- Calendar: Reminders can now appear in your calendar.
- Wallet: Tap to cash will allow you to instantly transfer cash from phone to phone.
Apple Intelligence
As well as the above features, which will be available on all handsets that can support iOS 18, there will be new AI features only available on the iPhone 15 Pro models and iPhone 16 range.
These new tools will significantly enhance the capabilities of Siri and a range of apps. Learn more about them in our separate guide to Apple Intelligence.