iOS 18 to ride generative AI wave: A look at expected features

As such, expect several iOS apps and features to gain AI features. According to MacRumors, Apple Music could get smart auto-generated playlists to surface new tunes, for instance. However, some of the most advanced AI capabilities may be limited to newer iPhone models with beefier chips and neural engines. Google and Samsung have taken a similar approach.

While Apple will process some of the AI features on-device, it’s also looking to partner with companies with existing AI infrastructures to power the heavier features like image and text generation. Reports suggest the company is in talks with Google, OpenAI, and even Chinese search giant Baidu.

Meanwhile, for on-device processing, the iPhone 16 Pro models could feature upgraded Neural Engines with a lot more cores. More RAM and storage are also a possibility.

Siri is expected to level up too with AI smarts. Leaks suggest large language models (LLMs) will comprehensively revamp Siri into the “ultimate virtual assistant.” If this indeed materialises, expect vastly improved conversation abilities.

The voice assistant may also gain deeper Shortcuts app integration for automating complex multi-step tasks. And to top it all off, Mark Gurman reported another upgrade that lets Siri auto-complete text in Messages and answer complex queries.

Finally, RCS support

Another exciting addition coming with iOS 18 is support for the RCS (Rich Communication Services) messaging standard. For years, Apple has stubbornly stuck to its proprietary iMessage, leaving Android users out in the cold with compressed videos and lack of read receipts.

But with RCS support baked into iOS 18, iPhone and Android folks can finally enjoy functionalities like exchanging crisp videos and seeing typing indicators. However, green bubbles are reportedly not going anywhere.

Home screen to get a makeover

If you desire greater flexibility on your iPhone’s home screen, iOS 18 could be the refresh you’ve been craving. Apple is rumoured to be giving users more control over icon arrangement, with the ability to create blank spaces, rows, and columns.

It’s shaping up to be the most significant home screen update in years, on par with the lock screen changes introduced in iOS 16.

New accessibility features

Apple has always been a champion of accessibility features, and iOS 18 looks to continue that trend. Rumour has it we could see “Adaptive Voice Shortcuts” for tying custom phrases to settings, expanded “Live Speech” capabilities, and adjustable font sizes across more apps.

But the real showstopper might be AirPods Pro gaining hearing aid functionality. Whether they’ll be full-blown FDA-approved hearing aids or just personal sound amplifiers remains to be seen, but either way, it’s a game-changer for those with hearing impairments.

Maps to step up its game

Apple Maps might not be everyone’s go-to navigation app, but things are slowly changing. Rumours suggest the app may gain custom route support, allowing you to chart your own path instead of being limited to predetermined options.

Plus, the topographic maps feature from watchOS 10 could make its way to the iPhone, giving outdoor enthusiasts a detailed view of trails, elevation, and points of interest.

Does your iPhone make the cut?

There’s a good chance your iPhone will get treated to the update. iOS 18 is expected to roll out on all devices currently on iOS 17. This means that the version will be compatible all the way back with Apple’s 2018 lineup which includes the iPhone XS and iPhone XR. The same goes for your iPad – if your unit was first unveiled in 2018 you should be in the safe zone.

So when is it all coming out?

With Apple set to throw its hat in the AI ring, it’s easy to see why iOS 18 is so hypeworthy. As usual, expect it to be previewed at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 10 and a public beta following in July. The fully-baked version will then likely come out with the iPhone 16 series in September.

Just take all this information with a pinch of salt – remember, Apple hasn’t confirmed anything as of yet.