Apple today previewed iOS18, the next major update to the iPhone’s operating system, with new customization features, a redesigned photo app, and more. iOS18 comes with a new customization tool for the home screen. The app icons now feature a dark mode and users can color them with colors to create a unique look. The app can also now be placed anywhere on the home screen freely.
The control center has been redesigned with a new gallery and is highly customizable. Developers can provide tools for their apps in the Control Center. Users can swipe continuously to access other control center screens. Lock screen controls are also customizable.
In messages, tapback has been redesigned and users can now react to any emoji. Users can also schedule messages to be sent later, or format text in bold, italic, underline, or strikethrough. The new text effect provides a way to highlight words and phrases with automatic suggestions. Users can now send and receive messages over a satellite connection.
In emails, emails are automatically categorized to help prioritize messages. The maps app also has a new topographic map with trail network and hiking routes. In Wallet, the new Tap To Cash feature sends cash by holding your iPhone together.
The Photos app has been completely redesigned with iOS18. The app is integrated into a single view, with a photo grid at the top displaying the entire library and collection organized by theme below. The user can use the month and year view at the bottom and there is a filter button that allows you to hide the screenshots or sort them in other ways.
The space under the grid contains a collection with the ability to browse on topics such as time, people, memories, and travel. Recent days show photos from the past few days, with things like receipt photos automatically excluded. People and pets now collect people and collection group photos can be sorted or fixed. Swipe right from the grid to see a new carousel with featured photos and other favorite collections. It is automatically updated to surface new images.
Users can use authentication to lock the app and hide information from search and Siri at the same time. iOS18 also includes a new way to connect accessories more seamlessly.
iOS18 brings RCS messaging support, large home screen icons and calendar reminder integration to IPHONE.
The game mode is also on the iPhone for the first time, minimizing background activity to keep the frame rate high, and allowing a more responsive connection to AirPods and wireless game controllers.
The first developer beta of IOS 18 will be available from today, followed by a public beta on May 7, with an official release to the public in the fall.
