iOS 18: Here are 10 big new features coming to your iPhone

Apple's eagerly anticipated iOS 18 update, revealed during the WWDC 2024 keynote, introduces a slew of new features, particularly centered around AI enhancements branded as "Apple Intelligence." Here’s a breakdown of the most significant updates coming to the iPhone this fall:

Apple Intelligence

1. Rebranding AI: Apple introduces its AI features under the name "Apple Intelligence," following a trend of incorporating generative AI capabilities into their software. This rebranding aligns with Apple's focus on privacy and on-device processing.

2. Rewrite Tool: This feature helps users reword their writing in three styles: Friendly, Professional, and Concise. Users can even ask for their text to be rewritten as a poem. This tool aims to assist users in crafting messages confidently.

3. Image Editing and Creation: iOS 18 brings a new cleanup tool for removing unwanted elements from photos, similar to Google Pixel's Magic Eraser. Additionally, the Image Playground tool allows users to generate images in Animation, Illustration, and Sketch styles using simple keywords. This feature will enable users to create unique images of their contacts and even custom emojis called "Genmoji."

Enhanced Siri

4. New Look and Capabilities: Siri gets a major update with a new visual design, featuring a colorful frame around the screen during interactions. Users can now ask Siri questions via text, making it more versatile.

5. Improved Understanding: Siri becomes more forgiving of speech imperfections, better processing mid-sentence corrections and stutters. It also improves in handling tasks like sending photos and integrating content across apps.

Privacy and Security

6. Private Cloud Compute: Apple ensures that any AI tasks requiring cloud processing will be handled by its Private Cloud Compute servers, promising secure and verifiable privacy measures. This is part of Apple’s ongoing commitment to user privacy.

Additional Features

7. Messages Updates: Enhancements to the Messages app will bring new functionalities to group chats, aiming to improve user experience and engagement.

8. Photos App Redesign: A redesigned Photos app introduces new organizational features, although it may initially confuse some users until they adapt to the changes.

9. Integration with OpenAI: Apple confirms a partnership with OpenAI, bringing ChatGPT-4 tools to the iPhone, enhancing AI capabilities across the system.

Context and Impact

The updates in iOS 18 signify Apple's push towards integrating AI more deeply into its ecosystem while maintaining its reputation for prioritizing user privacy. These changes are poised to enhance user experience significantly, making everyday tasks easier and more intuitive.

For more details, you can refer to Apple's official announcements and coverage from tech news outlets following the WWDC 2024 keynote.