Even without artificial intelligence, September brings its share of new features for Apple fans. The launch of the iPhone 16 is preceded, as every year, by the availability of the latest version of the iPhone and iPad operating system to eligible models. The update to iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 was due to be released to the public this Monday, September 16 at the end of the day. around 7 p.m. (French time) with several developments that promise to shake up the habits of users of these products on a daily basis.
Once is not customary, The leap to this new generation leaves no model behind : all iPhones compatible with iOS 17 are also compatible with iOS 18. In detail, these are the iPhone SE (2 and later), iPhone XS, XS Max and XR, iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max, iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max, iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max and the latest iPhone 16.
Before installing iOS 18, it is recommended to make a backup of your data. Also remember to connect your device to a WiFi network: the file weighs several gigabytes which could weigh down your mobile data consumption.
More interface customization options
The update first adds new interface customization options. It is now possible to choose the color of application iconsto choose a predefined theme (dark, color, monochrome) and to place them with more latitude than before. An option also allows to hide the name of the applications in order to keep only the icons by going to “Modify”, “Customize”, “Large”.
iOS 18 Control Center
Credit: RTL
THE Lock screen shortcuts can be modified, with the addition of new functions and applications, such as Shazam, Instagram, translation, quick notes or the flashlight. Control Center becomes customizable with the ability to move elements, adjust their size and arrange them on multiple thematic pages, dedicated to “home”, “connectivity” or “music”, for example. It also becomes possible to hide or lock any application behind Face ID, Touch ID or a code for more confidentiality.
iOS 18 lets you lock access to apps
Credit: RTL
A new “Passwords” application
Another addition: Updating to iOS 18 turns the iPhone into a a real password manager. The functionality integrated into iCloud becomes a native application dedicated to storing all passwords, access keys and WiFi codes in a platform secured by encryption and protected by Touch ID, Face ID or a code. This new tool also offers the possibility of creating shared accesses for loved ones, of easily sharing a password in the form of a QR code to scan and of being alerted when combinations are compromised or reused on several sites.
iOS 18 introduces a new dedicated password management app
Credit: RTL
Photos app redesign
Apple is taking the opportunity to give the Photos app its biggest overhaul yet. Images are reorganized in thematic collectionssuch as travel, people, or animals. Pinned collections provide easy access to albums you've already created. A new “carousel” feature highlights photos from different albums every day. The app's search engine gains depth with the ability to search for items by date, location, or by typing a short description.
The Photos app now highlights gallery images in automatic albums
Credit: Apple
New animations
The update to iOS 18 also brings its share of new animations supposed to make the iPhone interface more fluid. From the control center, it is for example possible to:adjust the flashlight beam more precisely by long-pressing the tool icon to stretch or tighten the light halo. Apple is also introducing new animations that give the impression that the edge of the phone is deformed when you press any button. Apple is also adding a new button to turn off the iPhone directly from the Control Center without having to hold down the right button and the top volume button.
iOS 18 lets you adjust iPhone flashlight intensity and beam
Credit: RTL
Schedule a message for later
Messages also benefit from a set of new features, with the ability to react with any emoji, apply new effects to text, and support for the RCS standard for richer communications with Android devices. It also becomes possible to schedule a message to send later.
iOS 18 brings the ability to schedule messages for later
Credit: RTL
Waiting for Apple Intelligence tools
These developments will be followed in the coming months by the arrival of new tools from generative artificial intelligence via the deployment of the Apple Intelligence system, which is scheduled to be launched this fall on the American market but not before 2025 in Europe. iPhone 16 and 15 Pro users will then be able to benefit from writing assistance features, image editing, automatic translation and benefit from a more relevant Siri capable of mobilizing elements stored on the iPhone from one application to another.
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