Apple is set to release iOS 18 on September 16, but not all iPhones will be eligible for the update. Here’s a breakdown of which devices will be supported and the key new features you can expect.
New iPhone Models and Devices Revealed
During Apple’s recent event, the tech giant unveiled the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models, along with the Apple Watch Series 10 and the latest AirPods 4. These new devices will hit the market on September 20, with iOS 18 pre-installed, so users won’t need to worry about updating their software right out of the box. For those with older iPhone models, iOS 18 will be available as a free update starting on September 16. However, not every iPhone will be able to run the new operating system, and even those that can may not receive all the advanced features of the Apple Intelligence suite.
Compatibility for iOS 18
Each year, Apple drops support for some older iPhone models from the list of iOS-compatible devices. For example, last year, the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X were excluded from the iOS 17 compatibility list, meaning those devices missed out on the latest updates and features. The same holds true for iOS 18. Although some older hardware will still receive significant updates, such as a software upgrade that turns AirPods Pro into hearing aids, many older models will not have access to the full suite of new features.
If you’re wondering whether your iPhone will be compatible with iOS 18, here’s a list of supported devices:
- iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
- iPhone XR, XS, XS Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
If you have an iPhone from 2017 or earlier, such as the iPhone 8 or iPhone X, you won’t be able to upgrade to iOS 18. While your phone will still function, it won’t receive the latest features or updates.
Apple Intelligence: Who Can Access It?
Although older devices can run iOS 18, not all will be able to access Apple’s new Intelligence features. These advanced tools will only be available to those with an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or one of the new iPhone 16 models. If you own any other device, you won’t have access to these beta features yet.
When Will Apple Intelligence Be Released?
If your iPhone is compatible with Apple Intelligence, you can expect to start using some of its features in October. Initially, Apple will release the Intelligence suite for newer iPhones, starting with those in the United States. In December, the update will roll out to English-speaking users in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Other languages, such as Chinese, French, Japanese, and Spanish, are expected to be added in 2025.
For now, Apple Intelligence will not be available in the European Union. Apple is still in discussions with EU regulators regarding the enforcement of the Digital Markets Act, which affects the rollout of the new features.
New iOS 18 Features
The most significant update in iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, but this feature will be released gradually over several months, with some advanced features only available on the latest iPhone 15 Pro models. However, there are still plenty of exciting updates for all compatible devices. Here are a few highlights:
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Passwords App: Apple is introducing a standalone Passwords app, which allows users to securely store credentials and receive security alerts all in one place. Currently, this feature exists within the Settings app, but the dedicated app will streamline access.
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Improved Messages App: The Messages app is getting a significant upgrade, including the ability to format text with bold, italics, underlining, and strikethrough options. Additionally, users will be able to add animations to text messages. The update also includes RCS support, which improves compatibility between iPhones and Android devices.
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Photos Library Redesign: The Photos app is receiving a major overhaul, offering users the ability to organize and pin collections. This new feature makes it easier to manage albums like “Wedding Photos” or “Vacation in Aruba,” enhancing the app’s user experience.
These are just a few of the exciting features coming to iOS 18. While not all iPhone models will receive the full range of new capabilities, most users will still be able to enjoy a fresh experience on their devices once the update is released. If your iPhone is compatible, mark your calendars for September 16 and get ready for iOS 18.