At the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple unveiled that iOS 18 added satellite capabilities to iMessage, allowing users to contact loved ones without an internet connection. This functionality will be available on the iOS 18-updated iPhone 14 and newer.
New Customizable Features and More
Apple disclosed other iMessage improvements at the annual event. According to The Verge, users will soon be able to schedule messages, use any emoji for tapbacks, and create message effects. New text formatting choices include bolding, underlining, strikethrough, and italicizing. RCS will be included in iMessage.
iOS 18 introduces the new Home Screen, Control Center, and other feature customization tools. iOS 18 now supports Dark Mode and allows users to color app icons for a unique look. Apps may move freely on the home screen.
The new Control Center is customizable and has a gallery for app tools. The lock screen controls are adjustable, allowing continuous access to more control centers.
New privacy features let users authenticate applications and conceal data from Siri and Search. Accessories connect more smoothly with iOS 18.
MacRumors reported that Messages users may now respond with any emoji, schedule messages, and format text with bold, italic, underlined, and strikethrough. New text effects automatically highlight words and phrases. Messaging via satellite is provided.
Mail now categorizes emails to make them easier to prioritize. Topographical maps showcasing trail networks and hiking routes are a new addition to Maps.
WWDC24 also saw the unveiling of the "Tap to Cash" function in Wallet, which allows users to transmit cash by simply holding their phones together.
Photos have been modified to display a photo grid at the top and a thematic library below. Users may filter images, browse recent days, and arrange collections by time, people, memories, and trips. The app now has a carousel of featured photos and favorite collections.
In another update, iOS 18 introduces Gaming Mode on the iPhone, which reduces background activities to boost frame rates, AirPod, and wireless gaming controller responsiveness.
Apple Intelligence Launched
Apple's revelation of its AI, dubbed Apple Intelligence, is most likely the most anticipated part of WWDC24, wherein the tech giant revealed its new "personal intelligence system," to be integrated across all Apple devices accompanying iOS 18, according to TechCrunch.
Apple Intelligence helps the iPhone understand languages and visuals and behave in context. In smart concentration mode, a new notification system prioritizes key notifications and hides others.
Moreover, writing features in Notes, Mail, Pages, and third-party apps help users write correctly and reduce errors. Apple Intelligence can summarize lengthy passages and generate smart mail responses without typing.
Using device photographs, Apple Intelligence creates AI-generated graphics with varied styles. These will be used as overlays for messages and independent applications in a new image playground. Additionally, third-party developers can use this functionality.
A new AI-powered cleaning tool improves photo editing in Photos, and users can better explore their collection, including video experiences.
Apple Intelligence has improved Siri with new actions and a screen-clearing interface. App Intents lets Siri make more complicated multi-step queries to discover files, show photographs, and conduct activities across applications.
Meanwhile, the first-generation 10.5-inch iPad Pro, second-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro, and sixth-generation iPad will not receive iPadOS 18, according to GSMArena. iPadOS 18 will be available for 2018 and subsequent iPad Pros, Airs, minis, and ordinary iPads. The Apple Intelligence AI functions will likely work exclusively with iPads using Apple's M series chipsets.
Developer beta 1 of iOS 18, incorporating Apple Intelligence, is available today. A public beta and an autumn release follow.
