Apple Inc. (AAPL) today previewed iOS 18, a major update to its mobile operating system that will bring significant new customization options, an overhauled Photos app, enhanced messaging capabilities, and the company’s first systemwide integration of generative AI models dubbed “Apple Intelligence.”
The iOS 18 release aims to make the iPhone more personal and intelligent through features like the ability to freely arrange apps and widgets on the home screen, custom lock screen controls, tinted app icon effects, and grouped Control Center modules. The Photos app gets its biggest redesign ever with automated curation of highlights and a new carousel view.
In Messages, iOS 18 adds animated text effects, scheduled sending, RCS support for non-Apple devices, and satellite messaging for areas without cellular coverage. The Mail app will introduce AI-driven inbox categorization later this year.
But the headliner is Apple Intelligence, which brings generative AI capabilities like writing assistance, image creation/editing, and query answering deeply integrated across the operating system and first-party apps. Apple says the system is built with privacy in mind, keeping personal data encrypted on-device or processed through its secure cloud infrastructure.
Other notable iOS 18 features include a dedicated Passwords app, new privacy controls for locking and hiding apps, enhanced Siri voice/text interactions, mobile gaming optimizations, and immersive AirPods features like head gesture responses.
The software update represents a significant step in Apple’s efforts to fend off AI rivals like OpenAI while maintaining its pro-privacy stance. With deep OS integration, Apple Intelligence could drive longer user engagement and boost services revenue. However, any missteps on privacy or performance could risk backlash.
iOS 18 is currently in beta and will launch for all users this fall. The update will be pre-installed on Apple’s upcoming iPhone 15 lineup, expected to be unveiled in September.