Apple's iOS 18 launch: Check eligible devices and discover new features
Apple has just launched iOS 18, now available for eligible iPhones to download for free in the Software Update settings.
If you're planning to get one of the upcoming iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro models, which are set to be released on September 20, they will come pre-installed with iOS 18.
However, not all iPhones will support this latest update, and even those that do might miss out on some of the advanced “Apple Intelligence” features.
This is part of Apple's regular update strategy, where older models are gradually left out. For example, last year, the “iPhone 8”, “iPhone 8 Plus”, and “iPhone X” were no longer compatible with iOS 17, leaving their users unable to access new features.
On the upside, some older devices will benefit from major upgrades, like a forthcoming software update that turns existing “AirPods Pro” into hearing aids, following recent FDA approval.
iPhones compatible with iOS 18:
If your device was eligible for iOS 17, it will likely support iOS 18 as well, meaning you won’t need to purchase a new phone to enjoy the latest software. Here's a list of iPhones that can run iOS 18:
- iPhone SE (2nd gen or later)
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS / XS Max
- iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max
For those with an “iPhone 8” or “iPhone X” from 2017 or earlier, your device will not be able to upgrade to iOS 18, though it will continue to function as usual, without the latest features.
Apple Intelligence features:
While iOS 18 is available to many devices, the “Apple Intelligence” features will initially be limited to newer models. Only the “iPhone 15 Pro”, “iPhone 15 Pro Max”, and the upcoming iPhone 16 models will support these advanced features at launch.
When will Apple Intelligence features be available?
If your iPhone is compatible with Apple Intelligence, you'll begin to see some features roll out in October, starting with English language support in the US. By December, localized English versions will be available in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK. Further language support, including Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish, will be introduced next year. However, Apple Intelligence won’t be coming to the EU anytime soon due to ongoing regulatory issues.
Key features in iOS 18:
Although “Apple Intelligence” is the biggest highlight, iOS 18 introduces several other features that are available now:
- “Passwords app”: Securely store your passwords and credentials in one place with enhanced access.
- “Improved Messages”: iMessage now supports bold, italic, underline, and strikethrough text, along with animations and better Android compatibility via “RCS”.
- “Revamped Photos library”: A redesigned Photos app allows you to create and pin custom collections and organize your images more intuitively.
- “Personalized home screen”: Customize your app layout, rearrange icons around the screen border, and tint apps in different colours.