Apple’s iOS 18 Update: What You Need to Know

Apple has just released its latest software update, iOS 18, for iPhone users, and the new features will make you want to dive right in. The update was released on Monday and follows the highly-anticipated iPhone 16 launch. From customizing your home screen to upgrades to the Messages app, Apple’s iOS 18 will leave you stuck to your phone. Here’s what you need to know about the update’s new features:

For starters, Apple gives users more control over designing their home screen layout. Through iOS 18, you can arrange your app icons and widgets instead of being confined to the traditional grid. Users can also dabble in the color tint option. With this feature, you can customize colors on apps and widgets, or you can allow Apple to suggest color options that match your wallpaper. To top it off, dark mode will look differently as well, with app icons automatically adjusting to the setting.

Next on the list are changes to the control center. Users can now revamp their control center by grouping various controls, seeing all available controls at once through a gallery-style design, and even resizing them. Apple’s Messages app will also experience a switch-up. In addition to the previous features, users can add text effects, such as ripples, to words, letters, and emojis in iMessage. The app will include formatting options that allow users to bold, underline, strikethrough, or italicize text. Additionally, Apple is adding more quick reactions with a wider range of reactions, such as emojis and stickers, as well as a “send later” feature to allow users to schedule messages.

If you have searched through the settings menu to find your saved passwords, iOS 18 offers a password app to save you the trouble. This app will make it easier for users to store their passwords and manage login credentials. You can also add two-factor authentication codes to ensure your apps are safe and secure from intruders. The software updates and completely revamps the photos app for the biggest feature. As of now, your pictures are organized by collections based on topics. Through the change, users can now see their “recent days,” which offers a snapshot of their latest photos with a filter that helps you specify what you’re looking for.

Nonetheless, iOS 18 will include other noteworthy features, such as an option to restart your phone from the control center, customize your lock screen, adjust beam width, “tap to cash” in the wallet, map enhancements, and live audio transcriptions.