Apple’s iOS 18 has officially dropped, bringing significant upgrades and new features to iPhones. From AI-powered tools to camera enhancements, here’s everything you need to know about this latest update, including iPhone compatibility and how to download it.
Key Highlights:
- iOS 18 introduces powerful AI tools such as “Apple Intelligence” for smarter assistance across apps.
- New camera and customisation features offer users more control over their photos and home screen.
- Available for iPhone models starting from iPhone 12 and newer.
iOS 18 features you can expect
The iOS 18 update is centred around Apple Intelligence, a system that powers various AI-based tools across your iPhone.
These tools simplify tasks, making everything from writing emails to organising photos smarter and more efficient.
One standout is Writing Tools, which enhances productivity.
Whether you need to summarise a long email or rewrite text in different styles—such as casual, professional, or friendly—this feature adjusts your writing style effortlessly.
In apps like Notes and Mail, you can even transcribe audio messages into text.
The Image Playground feature gives users a creative playground, allowing the generation of fun images based on simple prompts.
This feature taps into Apple’s generative AI technology to transform text inputs or photos into themed images, such as creating stylised avatars.
In terms of camera functionality, Camera Control brings a more intuitive interface, with touch-sensitive controls that let you adjust zoom and focus easily.
For example, macro photography has been boosted thanks to the improved Ultra Wide camera, which allows you to capture intricate details of close-up objects.
Another exciting feature is the 3D Image Styles, which creates dynamic, visually appealing images in apps like Photosand Messages.
This is paired with the ability to spatially capture videos, adding depth and realism to everyday moments.
Siri also gets a major overhaul with iOS 18. Apple’s voice assistant can now better understand your personal context and complete tasks across apps without needing to switch manually between them.
For instance, Siri can assist with composing texts, transcribing calls, or identifying objects around you with the upgraded Visual Intelligence tool.
iPhone compatibility with iOS 18
Not every iPhone will be able to enjoy the iOS 18 experience.
Apple has made the update compatible with devices starting from the iPhone 12 and newer models.
This includes popular devices like the iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and the iPhone SE (3rd generation).
However, older models such as the iPhone 11, iPhone XR, and iPhone XS are no longer supported.
Apple has decided to focus iOS 18 on more recent devices to optimise the experience, particularly because features like Apple Intelligence and advanced camera controls require the latest hardware to perform smoothly.
How to download iOS 18
Downloading iOS 18 is a straightforward process, but you should follow a few important steps to ensure everything runs smoothly:
- Back up your data: Before installing the update, back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes to prevent any data loss.
- Connect to Wi-Fi and charge your phone: Ensure your device is connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network and has at least 50% battery power, or keep it plugged in during the installation.
- Download the update:
- Open Settings > General > Software Update.
- Your iPhone will automatically check for updates and prompt you with iOS 18.
- Tap Download and Install.
- If prompted, enter your passcode to confirm the installation, and your phone will restart once the process is complete.
The update will be available for all eligible devices and can be downloaded over-the-air (OTA) for free.
