Rumors and Expectations for iOS 18: Smarter Siri, RCS Support, Design Changes, and More
As the release of iOS 18 draws closer, rumors and expectations for the highly anticipated software update are already swirling. Apple enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the new features and improvements that the tech giant has in store. From smarter AI to design changes, here’s what we can expect from iOS 18.
Smarter Siri and Generative AI
One of the most exciting rumors surrounding iOS 18 is the inclusion of new generative AI features for Siri and various built-in apps. According to sources like Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and The Information’s Wayne Ma, Siri, Spotlight, Shortcuts, Apple Music, Messages, Health, Numbers, Pages, Keynote, and more will all benefit from this advanced technology.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has been teasing the company’s work on generative AI, promising to share more details “later this year.” This aligns with the rumored release of iOS 18 in September. Generative AI gained popularity in 2022 when OpenAI introduced ChatGPT, a chatbot capable of responding to questions and text prompts. Apple seems keen on harnessing this technology to enhance user experiences across its ecosystem.
It’s worth noting that some generative AI features may be exclusive to the iPhone 16 models. These devices are rumored to boast a Neural Engine with significantly more cores, allowing for even more advanced AI capabilities.
RCS Support in Messages App
Apple has also made headlines with its announcement that it will support the cross-platform messaging standard RCS in the Messages app. This move aims to improve the texting experience between iPhones and Android devices. While the rollout is expected to happen later in 2024, it’s highly likely that RCS support will be a prominent feature of iOS 18.
With RCS support, iPhone users can look forward to higher-resolution photos and videos, audio messages, typing indicators, read receipts, and even Wi-Fi messaging between iPhones and Android devices. Group chats will also see improvements, including the ability for iPhone users to leave a conversation that includes Android users. These features are already available in third-party messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, but RCS support will extend them to the Messages app on iPhones.
Design Changes
Apple is known for its sleek and intuitive design, and it seems that iOS 18 will bring some updates to the overall look and feel of the operating system. In a recent edition of his newsletter, Mark Gurman hinted at a design update for iOS as early as this year. While specific details remain under wraps, Apple’s senior management has described iOS 18 as “ambitious and compelling,” with “major new features and designs.” However, it’s important to note that iOS 18 is not expected to undergo a total overhaul akin to visionOS.
Accessibility Features
Apple has always prioritized accessibility, and iOS 18 is likely to continue this trend. The update may introduce new accessibility features related to VoiceOver, Live Speech, and Text Size. These enhancements will further empower users with disabilities and ensure that everyone can enjoy the full potential of their Apple devices.
Conclusion
As the countdown to iOS 18 continues, the rumors and expectations surrounding the software update are only growing stronger. From smarter AI capabilities to RCS support and design changes, Apple seems poised to deliver another groundbreaking operating system. While we eagerly await its official unveiling at Apple’s annual developers conference WWDC in June, one thing is for certain: iOS 18 is set to redefine the way we interact with our iPhones and iPads. Stay tuned for more details as they emerge!
For additional information on iOS 18, be sure to check out our comprehensive iOS 18 roundup.
