iOS 18: New Features and Supported Models

iOS 18 comes with many exciting features. While all iPhone models that support iOS 17 will be able to update to this new version, this does not mean that every iPhone model will have access to all new features. Some features of iOS 18 will only be available on newer iPhone models. Here are the new features you will get depending on which iPhone model you have:

Necessary iOS 18 Features for iPhone 11 or Newer Models

• Improved Dialogue: This feature will help you hear the sounds on the screen better in noisy environments or while listening to music. It can be used with built-in speakers in new iPhone and iPad models, wired headphones, AirPods, or other Bluetooth-connected speakers and headphones.
• Hands-Free Unlocking: When carrying your iPhone in your bag or pocket, or wearing an Apple Watch, you will be able to automatically unlock your smart lock as you approach it. However, this feature will not be available for iPhone SE 2 and iPhone SE 3 users.

Necessary iOS 18 Features for iPhone 12 or Newer Models

• Live Voice Transcription: You will be able to search within audio recordings by opening them in the Notes app. Additionally, it will offer the ability to create live voice transcriptions that can be combined with other comments, checklists, or documents.
• Eye Tracking: This feature requires iPhone 12 or a newer model. Users will be able to control their iPhone using only eye movements. This functionality was announced during the WWDC 2024 keynote. It is also worth noting that it is not compatible with iPhone SE 2.
• Music Taps: This Apple Music feature, available on iPhone 12 or newer models, will synchronize the iPhone’s Taptic Engine with the rhythm of songs, allowing users with hearing loss to enjoy the Apple Music catalog.

Apple Intelligence: Exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro Users

Apple’s artificial intelligence service, Apple Intelligence, will only work with the iPhone 15 Pro that has an AI processor. Among these new features:

• Writing Tools: Users will be able to easily use, edit, and summarize the text they write in Mail, Notes, Pages, and third-party applications elsewhere.
• Image Playback Area: Users will be able to create fun images in seconds by selecting one of the Animation, Illustration, or Sketch applications. This application will also be available within other applications like Messages.
• Memories in Photos: Users will be able to create stories they want to see by simply writing a description. Apple Intelligence will select the most suitable photos and videos based on the description, create a story from the photos based on the theme, and organize them into a film with a narrative flow.
• Cleanup Tool: This feature in the Photos app will detect distracting objects in the background of a photo and clean the background without harming the main details.
• Siri: Users will be able to type text to Siri and switch between text and voice for communication.
• ChatGPT Integration: When Apple Intelligence is not sufficient, users will be able to allow ChatGPT’s Writing Tools and other features to be accessible.