Reportedly, the four models of the iPhone 16 have already received a first minor software update. Additionally, iOS 18.1 has been available for testing for several weeks, with the final version expected to be released in mid-October. According to iPhone-Ticker citing Bloomberg, the release candidate may be available in the coming days.
The first point update for iOS 18 will introduce initial AI functions to the iPhone, albeit not in EU countries. The manufacturer is also opening up the smartphone’s NFC interface for potential competitors to Apple Pay. In the past, Volksbanken, Raiffeisenbanken, and PayPal have announced plans to utilize this interface for their own mobile payment services on the iPhone.
iOS 18.2 Coming Later This Year
Roadmap for additional iOS updates leaked
Image: teltarif.de
As per the report, Apple plans to finalize iOS 18.2 by the end of November, allowing the update to be released in early December. This software update will aim to incorporate a first version of ChatGPT, along with the emoji construction kit Genmoji and a feature called Image Playground, which is an AI-supported image generator.
If Apple’s timeline holds, iOS 18.2 will roll out before Christmas. Following that, preparations for iOS 18.3 will commence. This update is expected to include the revamped email app showcased at the WWDC developer conference, among other features. Notification prioritization on the lock screen will also be introduced, with the final version of iOS 18.3 anticipated in January.
Siri Update with iOS 18.4
According to the report, iOS 18.4 will introduce several new features for the Siri voice assistant system. However, it will take some time before this firmware version reaches users. A release date in March 2025 is currently speculated, possibly coinciding with the launch of a new iPhone SE model.
In another article, you can find our Review of the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
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Exploring the Latest iOS 18 Updates: What iPhone Users Need to Know
As reported, the four models of the iPhone 16 have already received a first small software update. In addition, iOS 18.1 has been available for testing for several weeks, with a final version expected in mid-October. As the iPhone-Ticker reports, the release candidate could be available in the next few days.
With the first point update for iOS 18, not only are the first AI functions coming to the iPhone – albeit not in EU countries. The manufacturer is also releasing the NFC interface of the smartphones for potential Apple Pay competitors. Recently, Volksbanken and Raiffeisenbanken, as well as PayPal, announced that they wanted to use the interface for their own mobile payment services on the iPhone.
iOS 18.2 Later This Year
Roadmap for further iOS updates leaked
Bild: teltarif.de
According to the report, Apple also plans to complete iOS 18.2 by the end of November so that the update can be distributed in early December. This software update is expected to introduce the integration of ChatGPT. Additionally, there will be the emoji construction kit “Genmoji” and a function called “Image Playground,” which serves as an AI-supported image generator.
If the schedule of Apple holds, iOS 18.2 will be distributed before Christmas. Preparations for iOS 18.3 will begin thereafter. This upcoming update will introduce the updated email app presented at WWDC along with prioritization for notifications on the lock screen. The final version of iOS 18.3 is not anticipated until January.
What’s New in Siri with iOS 18.4
According to sources, iOS 18.4 will bring several new features to the Siri voice assistant system. However, users will have to wait a while before this firmware version is available. March 2025 is currently speculated as a possible release date, aligning with the launch of a new iPhone SE model.
Features Overview
| iOS Version | Expected Features | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| iOS 18.1 | Initial AI capabilities and NFC interface enhancements | Mid-October 2023 |
| iOS 18.2 | ChatGPT integration, Genmoji, Image Playground | Early December 2023 |
| iOS 18.3 | Revised email app, enhanced notification management | January 2024 |
| iOS 18.4 | New Siri features | March 2025 |
Benefits and Practical Tips for iPhone Users
With each iOS update, Apple aims to enhance user experience, security, and device performance. Here are some tips to maximize the benefits:
- Stay Updated: Regularly check for updates to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
- Explore New Features: Familiarize yourself with new functionalities like ChatGPT integration to fully utilize your device.
- Manage Notifications: Learn to prioritize notifications for improved efficiency.
First-Hand Experience with iOS 18.1
Early testers of iOS 18.1 have reported a smooth experience with the new features. Users appreciated the enhanced AI capabilities, even though some functionalities were not available in specific regions. The NFC enhancements are especially exciting for those interested in exploring alternative payment solutions.
Read our review of the iPhone 16 Pro Max to learn more about how these updates enhance overall device performance.
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