iOS 18 Update Released! Which iPhones Are Eligible, and What Are the Key New Features?

What should you pay attention to before updating your iPhone to iOS 18? How to update?

Before updating  your iPhone to iOS 18, here are a few important things to consider:

• Check if your iPhone model supports iOS 18.
• Check if there is enough storage space on your iPhone.
• It is recommended to keep your iPhone connected to a power source during the update.
• Ensure that your network connection is stable.
• It's advisable to back up the data on your iPhone beforehand.
• Confirm that Beta updates are turned off.

Special attention is required here: The storage space needed for updating to iOS 18 will vary depending on the iPhone model, the number of installed apps, and the size of personal data. Generally, Apple recommends keeping at least 50% of available storage space before updating the iOS system.

The steps to update to iOS 18 are very simple. Just go to Settings > General > Software Update, and your iPhone will automatically search for the latest available version. After clicking Start Installation > Update Now, the installation of the latest iOS 18 operating system will begin.

What are the standout features of iOS 18 on iPhone ?

1. Deep Personalization Experience

   
   

   iOS 18 brings an unprecedented level of personalization. You can freely arrange app icons and widgets to create a unique home screen on your iPhone. The lock screen has also become more flexible, allowing you to customize its appearance and change control items to better match your style. The new Control Center is more intuitive and easier to use, providing quick access to various settings.




2. Redesigned Photos App

   
   

   The Photos app on iPhone has been redesigned to make photo management easier. You can quickly browse, edit, and share photos. The new design makes it easier to find specific photos, and you can add tags and create albums to keep your photo library organized.




3. Passwords App

   
   

   The Passwords app on iPhone offers enhanced security by automatically syncing your passwords across all Apple devices. You can easily generate strong passwords and store them securely. The app also supports two-factor authentication to ensure your passwords are well-protected.




4. Game Mode

   
   

   Game Mode is tailored for gamers, offering a smoother and more stable gaming experience on iPhone . You can customize game notifications and adjust display settings to avoid interruptions while gaming. Game Mode also supports higher frame rates for more realistic gaming visuals.




5. Video Recording

   
   

   iOS 18 introduces a video pause feature on iPhone . During video recording, there will be a dedicated pause button at the bottom left corner that you can tap. A single tap pauses the recording, and tapping again resumes it, similar to the jump cut effect commonly used by content creators.




6. Notes

   
   

   The Notes app on iPhone adds new features such as voice-to-text conversion, automatic calculations for formulas, segmenting, and highlighting key points. These improvements make the app much more useful for those who frequently take notes.




7. Maps (Currently Available Only in Japan and the US)

   
   

   Apple Maps introduces a topographic map feature, allowing users to view more detailed information such as hiking trails and park paths. Additionally, users can now add their favorite hiking routes to the map.




8. Calculator and Calendar

   
   

   The new iOS 18 also updates the Calculator and Calendar functions. Among them, the “Currency Converter” feature added to the Calculator greatly benefits those who frequently travel abroad. The “Month View” mode in the Calendar has also been redesigned, making it easier for users to browse their entire month’s schedule.




9. Other Notable Updates

   
   

   • Smoother System Performance: iOS 18 offers smoother system performance, with faster app loading times and an overall improved user experience.
   • Enhanced Privacy Protection: iOS 18 includes more privacy features, giving you better control over your personal data.
   • Support for More Accessories: iOS 18 supports more third-party accessories(smart home devices, smart scales, blood pressure monitors, and more.), allowing you to expand the functionality of your iPhone.

Thoughts After Experiencing iOS 18 on iPhone

iOS 18 is undoubtedly the most significant system update for the iPhone in recent years. From the personalized home screen layout to the redesigned Control Center and Photos interface, it’s clear that Apple has put a lot of thought into the system’s design. Compared to previous iOS versions, iOS 18 offers much greater flexibility, allowing users to tailor their iPhone to their preferences.

The freedom to customize the home screen layout, in particular, has given my iPhone a fresh new look. With the ability to freely arrange app icons and widgets, I can quickly find the apps I need more efficiently. The optimization of dark mode not only makes it easier on the eyes but also enhances the overall visual experience. Meanwhile, the new tabbed design in the Control Center makes frequently used settings more accessible and easy to navigate.

However, during my experience with iOS 18, I did encounter a few minor bugs, but none of them severely impacted my overall experience. When compared to these small issues, the exciting new features of iOS 18 have made the experience much more enjoyable. Therefore, I highly recommend fellow iPhone users to update to iOS 18 as soon as possible and explore this newly designed system!