Apple Unveils Over 250 New Features in iOS 18, What to Expect

Apple is set to release iOS 18 on September 16, 2024, and the tech giant has published two comprehensive PDF documents detailing over 250 new features and updates for iOS 18 and iPadOS 18. These updates promise to enhance user experience across a wide range of devices, including iPhones, iPads, Apple TV, and more. While the documents offer a wealth of information, they come with many qualifications regarding when and where specific features will be available, which might limit functionality in certain regions.

A Full List of Features—With Some Caveats

Apple’s “Yours. Truly.” page now hosts a 9,000-word, 22-page PDF for iOS 18, listing all the new and improved features. Similarly, a 20-page, 8,000-word document is available for iPadOS 18, previewed on Apple’s main site. However, both documents provide minimal explanations for each feature, making it difficult for users to understand the full potential of each update at a glance.

For instance, one feature titled “SharePlay on more devices” mentions that it’s now easier for users to control music collectively across various devices like the HomePod, Apple TV, and Bluetooth speakers. However, there’s no detailed information on how the feature works or if there are any device limitations.

New iPhone Migration Feature

One notable new feature, previously unannounced, is related to data migration between iPhones. In a section titled “Cabled migration,” Apple explains that users can now directly connect their old iPhone to a new one using either a USB-C or USB-C to Lightning cable. This allows for a quicker and more seamless data transfer experience, which is expected to be a significant time-saver for users upgrading to newer models.

Focus on Apple Intelligence

Another major focus of iOS 18 is the enhancement of Apple Intelligence. While the feature has been previewed on Apple’s website, there is no separate PDF document specifically for it. Apple Intelligence is likely to play a key role in improving the overall user experience, offering smarter interactions and more intuitive device behavior.

iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 are shaping up to be significant updates, with over 250 features aimed at refining how users interact with their devices. From enhanced SharePlay functionality to quicker iPhone migration via cables, Apple continues to push the boundaries of user-friendly technology. However, the limited information in the feature descriptions may leave some users looking for more detailed insights as they explore the new capabilities after the official release.