Highlights

• iOS 18 potentially unveiling in June 2024, with a focus on AI advancements.
• Siri’s evolution expected with ChatGPT-like functionalities and deeper Shortcuts integration.
• RCS messaging support to improve iPhone-Android communication.
• Possible discontinuation of support for older iPhone models, following iOS 17’s pattern.

The arrival of iOS 18 has been on a few people’s minds ever since the rumour mill started spinning new stories about what a game-changing update it might be for Apple.

Slated for a potential reveal at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) in mid-2024, iOS 18 is poised to mark a significant step forward in Apple’s software development, particularly with a focus on AI, which really has become the buzz-word in today’s tech landscape.

Anticipated Release Timeline for iOS 18

If Apple maintains its usual schedule, iOS 18 is likely to be unveiled in early June 2024, with possible dates being June 3rd or 10th.

Post-WWDC, the public can expect a beta release around July, following which the final version of iOS 18 is anticipated to roll out in September 2024, coinciding with the launch of new iPhone models.

What Could Be New in iOS 18?

The buzz around iOS 18 is heavily centred on AI advancements. With tech giants like Google and Microsoft making significant strides in generative AI, Apple seems to be gearing up to incorporate similar technologies in iOS 18.

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has indicated that the next iPhone software update could be critical for integrating generative AI into the handset’s ecosystem.

As such, the advanced AGI models are expected to bolster the rather timid (in comparison to Google) functionalities in Siri and the Messages app.

The potential for change is to allow for more human-like interactions and advanced auto-completion capabilities.

AI and Siri’s Evolution in iOS 18

Rumours also suggest that Apple is investing heavily in AI servers and large language models, for a complete revamp of Siri, making it more akin to ChatGPT.

This would of course mean responses that are more nuanced and conversational. Additionally, there is speculation about deeper integration with the Shortcuts app, which could see Siri performing more complex tasks automatically.

Cross-Platform Messaging and RCS Support

Another significant feature expected in iOS 18 is the support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging.

Apple confirmed that the universal messaging standard is coming to iPhones but did not specify a timeline.

Now it is being assumed that iOS 18 would likely be the pedestal upon which Apple finally caves in and let’s iPhones communicate more freely with Android smartphones.

Currently, messaging an Android phone from an iPhone limits certain functionalities. With RCS support, iOS 18 could bridge this gap, offering a more feature-rich and seamless messaging experience.

Device Compatibility

While official confirmation is pending, speculation suggests that iOS 18 might drop support for older iPhone models, following the pattern observed with iOS 17.

Users of 2018 iPhone models might need to prepare for possible incompatibility with iOS 18, although nothing is set in stone until the official announcement at WWDC 2024.

FAQs

When is iOS 18 expected to be released?

Apple is likely to unveil iOS 18 during WWDC in June 2024, with a beta release following in July and the final version rolling out in September 2024, aligning with new iPhone launches.

What are the anticipated AI features in iOS 18?

iOS 18 is rumoured to integrate advanced AI technologies, potentially enhancing Siri to offer more nuanced and human-like interactions. The update is expected to bring generative AI features, improving the iPhone’s software capabilities significantly.

How will RCS messaging support affect iOS 18 users?

The introduction of RCS messaging in iOS 18 aims to bridge the communication gap between iPhone and Android users. It will enhance cross-platform messaging with features like read receipts and typing indicators for a seamless chatting experience.

Which iPhone models are likely to be compatible with iOS 18?

While not officially confirmed, it’s speculated that iOS 18 may drop support for 2018 iPhone models, similar to iOS 17’s pattern. Exact details will be clearer post the official announcement at WWDC 2024.