September feels like Christmas for Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) users, who eagerly await the latest product and software releases. Each update brings a sense of excitement, with users speculating about innovative new functionalities and performance improvements.
In the past, Apple typically unleashed its newest software all at once, but with the latest iOS rollout, users will gradually receive updates. While many features are already available for users to explore, others will be released over time.
Let's take a closer look at the latest features currently available to iPhone users with iOS 18 and what they can expect to see in the coming months.
Bespoke Home Screen Customizability
Apple is finally giving users more customization options for their iPhone home screen. In iOS 18, users can place app icons and widgets in a flexible arrangement wherever there is an open spot on the screen. Users can now make icons and widgets appear larger and remove the name underneath if desired, building on capabilities previously only available through popular third-party apps like Widgetsmith. For added privacy, apps can now be locked using Face ID, Touch ID, or a customized passcode, ensuring that a user's sensitive apps stay secure.
The Dawn of Apple Intelligence
Of course, the star of the show in iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, the company’s foray into generative AI which will be integrated into iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices to help users complete tasks effortlessly and efficiently.
With specific writing, focus, and communication features, Apple Intelligence will build on classic mainstays like Siri to be a personal assistant for users. For example, the Writing Tools feature will be able to proofread, rewrite, and summarize text all in one tap.
Siri’s not leaving, though! The feature will also evolve into a more capable and personalized assistant. Users can expect a deeper integration with their daily routines, allowing Siri to learn preferences and anticipate needs. Siri can suggest reminders based on previous activities, making a more tailored experience.
New Calling Experience
Apple has already announced some changes to the calling functionality, and plans to introduce exciting new features and SDKs, enabling companies to develop solutions for an enhanced calling experience. It looks like Apple will finally open a gateway for developers to create a real caller ID experience for iPhone users, years after having them eyeing their Android friends who can live spam-free lives.
Along with call recording features, updates will provide safer calling solutions against spam and telemarketing calls. These calls are becoming increasingly dangerous due to the rise of advanced AI. While some apps could help after the fact, iPhones have lacked real-time spam caller identification, and any attempts to address this issue either included heavy ‘dialing apps’ that weren’t iOS native and were extremely unwelcoming or a Siri-based solution that didn’t work in real time.
Livecaller is set to answer these needs with iOS 18, with a unique, iOS native solutions that is set to be released soon.
Ken Vinner, CEO of Livecaller shares, "With the rise of spam and telemarketing calls, we know how important it is for users to feel safe while using their iPhones. That's why it's essential that tools are in place to create a more secure calling experience. Our goal is to protect iPhone users without requiring them to take extra steps or worry that their personal information is being compromised."
Livecaller is not yet available to the public, but users can sign up on the company’s website to notified once it becomes available.
Amped-up iMessage Features
New iMessage features include added text effects, such as animations for letters, words, and emojis. Users can now format their messages by adding underlining, bold, strikethrough, or italics to letters and words. Users can also schedule messages to ensure important messages are sent at just the right time to the recipient. These enhancements make messaging more dynamic and personalized than ever before in iOS.
Organized Photos App
iPhones are renowned for their cameras, which allow users to capture memories easily using their phones. However, in the past, navigating through the app could be challenging for those who take many photos.
The Photos app has now been revamped to offer various organizational options, like categories for recent days or pinned collections. Photos are sorted by theme, making it easier for users to locate specific images from trips or events. Additionally, the updated app helps users filter out screenshots, preventing them from cluttering the library and allowing for a more organized photo management experience.
Although only some of these features are currently available, iOS 18 has advanced upgrades to enhance the overall experience. With improvements in customization and functionality, users can expect a more personalized interface.