Apple iOS 18 is here, bringing major updates to iPhones. This update introduces powerful AI features, better messaging with Android users, and more customization options.
Alongside Apple iOS 18, the company has also released iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and watchOS 11. These updates improve Apple’s entire device lineup, from iPhones and iPads to Macs and Apple Watch.
Here’s everything you need to know about Apple iOS 18 and how it changes the iPhone experience.
Apple iOS 18 Supercharges iPhones With AI-Powered Intelligence
The biggest highlight of Apple iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, a set of AI-powered tools designed to enhance everyday tasks.
With the latest update, users can now:
- Create AI images using Image Playground
- Generate custom emojis (called Genmoji)
- Use ChatGPT directly within Apple’s apps
Other AI features, like text rewriting, began rolling out in October. Apple Intelligence helps users rewrite emails, summarize messages, and adjust the tone of texts effortlessly.
How Does Apple Intelligence Stand Out?
Unlike Google’s Gemini AI or ChatGPT, Apple Intelligence processes most requests directly on your device. This keeps personal data private and ensures faster responses.
Customization & New Features in Apple iOS 18
Apple iOS 18 isn’t just about AI. It also introduces new customization options, health-tracking tools, and messaging improvements. These are innovations that can secure smart living for Apple users.
1. Change Your Default Apps
Apple iOS 18 now lets users set third-party apps as their defaults. Whether you prefer Chrome over Safari or Gmail instead of Mail, you can now customize your experience.
This long-requested feature makes iPhones more flexible than ever.
2. AirPods Hearing Test
With Apple iOS 18, AirPods Pro users can take a hearing test to detect potential hearing issues. This is part of Apple’s growing focus on health and wellness.
3. iPadOS 18 Finally Brings a Calculator
For years, iPad users have asked for a Calculator app. With iPadOS 18, Apple has finally added one. The new app includes a math solver in Notes, making it perfect for students and professionals.
4. Sleep Apnea Detection on Apple Watch
watchOS 11, released alongside iOS 18, introduces sleep apnea detection. Apple Watch can now monitor breathing patterns and oxygen levels while you sleep, helping identify potential sleep disorders.
5. Apple iOS 18 Improves Texting With Android (RCS Messaging)
One of the biggest updates in iOS 18 is RCS messaging. This significantly improves texting between iPhones and Android devices.
What’s Better With RCS?
- Read receipts – Know when your message is seen
- Typing indicators – See when someone is responding
- High-quality media sharing – Send photos and videos without compression
- Enhanced group chats – Works better across different devices
RCS messaging makes the iOS 18 a game-changer for iPhone users who frequently text with Android users.
Who Can Get Apple iOS 18?
The iOS 18 is available for iPhone XR and newer models. Users can update their devices by going to Settings > General > Software Update.
Apple will continue rolling out new features throughout 2025, so more improvements are expected in future updates. You should keep an eye open for some of the latest advances in Artificial Intelligence, so you won’t miss out.
Should You Update?
Yes! Apple iOS 18 is one of the most exciting iPhone updates in years.
- AI-powered Apple Intelligence makes everyday tasks easier
- New customization options let you personalize your device
- RCS messaging improves communication with Android users
- Health features like hearing tests and sleep apnea detection add more value
If you haven’t updated yet, now is the perfect time to experience Apple iOS 18.
