Let Loose event, Apple is now all set for the next big event of this year, WWDC 2024. The annual developer's conference will take place from June 10 to 14, beginning with an opening address on June 10. While WWDC usually centres around the upcoming updates to the operating system across Apple devices, this year the anticipation around the next-gen iOS update - iOS 18 - is higher as it is touted to be the most significant update since the inception of iOS, including a focus on AI.
Apple is reportedly planning to take its big leap in AI with the related announcement at WWDC. At the recent launch of the latest iPad Pro and iPad Air, Apple has already subtly hinted at a major AI overhaul coming with iOS 18. The company hinted that this update would be packed with a lot of generative AI capabilities. While nothing specific has been revealed by Apple, here is everything we are expecting based on rumours, leaks, and renders.
Apple to follow In-House AI Strategy
According to insights from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is doubling down on in-house AI technologies and is opting for on-device processing to enhance performance and privacy. Interestingly, Apple might now release its own chatbot. While reports earlier hinted at possibilities of Apple collaborating with Google for Gemini, recently a report by Bloomberg revealed that Apple is finalising an agreement with OpenAI to bring some of its technology to the iPhone this year. Following this deal, Apple is planning to include "a popular chatbot" powered by ChatGPT as part of its AI-focused features in iOS 18.
Apple to give AI powers to its iPhone Apps
According to reports, with iOS 18, Apple is likely to introduce overall AI enhancements across various first-party iPhone apps. The Notes app is expected to feature generative suggestions and editing capabilities, powered by on-device large language models (LLMs). Similarly, the Photos app might also receive AI-backed editing features, allowing users to manipulate backgrounds with ease- similar to the magic eraser in Pixel and other Android phones.
Apple is also expected to give its assistant Siri a significant AI makeover, enhancing its capabilities. Additionally, Apple Music could offer auto-generated playlists and more. Apart from apps, it is also said to integrate AI across multiple Apple products and services, offering enhanced user experiences.
More than AI
Apple is also said to introduce some other significant features to the iOS 18 update. These features include:
Customizable Home Screen: With iOS 18, Apple is also planning to offer iPhone users more options for customization of the Home screen, enabling users to place icons anywhere on the grid, a feature long-requested by users.
RCS Support: Finally, with iOS 18, Apple is said to release support for Rich Communication Services (RCS), enhancing messaging capabilities for iPhone users, particularly when communicating with Android devices.
New Accessibility Features and App Updates: iOS 18 is also speculated to introduce new accessibility features, such as Adaptive Voice Shortcuts and Live Speech enhancements.
Vision Pro Influence and Design Changes: According to rumours, for iOS 18, Apple is taking hints from its visionOS interface. So we might see circular home screen icons, which could be incorporated into iOS 18. Subtle design changes, particularly in the Camera app, are also anticipated, aligning with the overall vision of the operating system.
iOS 18 Release Date
Traditionally, Apple releases the new version of iOS at its Fall event around September, coinciding with the launch of new iPhones. After the initial unveiling at WWDC, Apple will gradually make iOS 18 available for beta testing for developers and the public, typically preceding the official release.
iPhones Compatible with iOS 18
As for compatibility, iOS 18 is expected to span across a range of iPhone models, ensuring widespread adoption of the latest features.