iOS 18 is here: these are the new functions

Apple’s new operating systems are now available: After a beta phase that lasted several months, the final versions of iOS 18, iPadOS 18 and macOS 15 Sequoia can be downloaded and installed from Monday evening – the easiest way is directly via the integrated software update on the device (“Settings> General> Software Update”). Apple hides the upgrade to iOS 18 below view. Above is a reference to what is expected to be the last major update to iOS 17, version 17.7 was released for download at the same time.

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New functions in iOS 18 & Co.

With iOS 18, Apple is expanding the options for personalization: the home screen can be adjusted in color, app icons can be freely placed and, for the first time, users can also determine two buttons on the lock screen that were previously reserved for the flashlight and the camera. In addition, the Control Center is now freely configurable even on multiple pages or views. Apps can provide their own controls for it, and many app updates already offer this functionality.

iOS 17.7, macOS 14.7 and more: Apple also updates older systems

iOS and iPadOS 18 come with a completely redesigned Photos app that takes some getting used to. Also, Apple has expanded its central messaging app: communication with Android users is now possible via RCS instead of just SMS, so that photos can be exchanged intelligently. In North America, it is now possible to send and receive iMessages even in inactive locations via satellite connection. Other regions are likely to follow.

Apple’s password management has received its own Passwords app that offers additional functions, for example allowing Wi-Fi passwords to be viewed on iPhone and iPad. According to individual reports from beta testers, Apple automatically activates iCloud sync when switching to the new app. Whether this can be specifically prevented remains an open question at the moment. You can turn it off again later in “Settings> (your name)> iCloud> Passwords”.

Additional updates for all Apple systems

iPadOS 18 offers improvements to handwritten entries: Apple’s Notes app can now straighten them and check spelling. It’s also possible to install alternative app stores such as Altstore PAL on iPad for the first time in the EU.

In addition to macOS 15 Sequoia, other available updates also include watchOS 11, tvOS 18, VisionOS 2, and audio software for HomePods 18. A firmware update has been available for AirPods Pro since last week, which brings new head gesture unlocking in conjunction with the new system. For older devices and users who don’t want to upgrade at the moment, Apple has also provided updates for older operating system versions.

These iPhones run on iOS 18

iOS 18 can be installed on all iPhones running iOS 17. Some innovations are reserved for the younger model series. There is relatively little scrap metal on the iPad this time: the upgrade is not offered only on the iPad 6 (2018), iPad Pro 10.5″ (2017) and iPad Pro 12.9″ of the second generation (2017).

You can read detailed tips and tricks about the innovations in Mac & i 5/2024, the magazine will be published on October 5. Articles starting with 14 tips and tricks on the new features of iOS 18 are already available on heise+.

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