iOS 18 has been released in public beta, giving users more control over the layout of their iPhones. However, the highly anticipated Apple Intelligence upgrade is missing from this update. Despite this, there are several improvements to native apps such as Photos, Messages (including RCS), and Notes. While we eagerly await the ability to create our own emojis, there are still plenty of new features to explore in iOS 18.
To access the iOS preview, you can enroll on Apple’s website, which will prompt the beta to appear in your iPhone’s Software Update section. Remember to back up your iPhone before updating and ensure compatibility (iOS 18 works on iPhone XS, XR, and newer models).
iOS 18 introduces more customization options beyond app folders and widgets. You can now tint them in a color of your choice and even have iOS choose a color based on your wallpaper. Additionally, you can slightly increase the size of app icons without reducing the number on your screen. The update also allows for moving icons outside the standard grid layout, offering more flexibility in organizing your apps.
New security features include locking or hiding apps, requiring FaceID access for certain applications. The control panel and settings menu have been refreshed for easier navigation, with a dedicated control gallery for smart home shortcuts and timers.
Messages on iOS 18 now support RCS, offering advanced text features and the ability to send messages over Wi-Fi. You can also schedule text messages and use new emoji reactions and text formatting options. Photos app has been redesigned to showcase curated albums and memories, with upcoming features like Cleanup to remove unwanted objects from photos.
Other highlights of iOS 18 include transcription and Math Notes in the Notes app, a revamped Reader on Safari, a new Passwords app for easier access to iCloud passwords, and enhanced smart home features like express mode and guest access controls.
Overall, iOS 18 provides incremental updates and enhancements to native apps, but the absence of Apple Intelligence limits the full potential of the update. The public beta is stable and recommended for early access to new features, but further conclusions on iOS 18 may need to wait for future updates.
