Apple has set September 16 as the launch date for its latest operating system updates, including iOS 18, macOS 15, iPadOS 18, and watchOS. The announcement was made on the company’s website following its recent iPhone-focused event. Updates for tvOS and the HomePod operating system will also roll out on the same day.
The new OS versions will introduce several enhancements, such as improved text messaging with Android devices through support for the RCS standard, iPhone Mirroring which allows interaction with your iPhone from a Mac, and expanded user interface customization options for iPhones and iPads.
However, the highly anticipated Apple Intelligence features, which include advanced generative AI and machine learning capabilities unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, will not be part of this initial release. Apple is currently testing these features in beta versions of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS 15.1, slated for a release later this fall. When Apple Intelligence becomes available, it will be limited to newer hardware, including the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models, iPad Air or Pro with M1, M2, or M4 chips, and Apple Silicon Macs. Notably, Apple Intelligence will initially be unavailable in the EU.
The upcoming updates will support most hardware compatible with iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma, including recent Intel Mac models from 2018, 2019, and 2020. Exceptions include the 2018 MacBook Air and some older iPads, while iPhones as old as the 2018 XR and XS will be eligible for the iOS 18 update.
Since WWDC, Apple has released multiple beta versions of these operating systems, with release candidate builds expected to be distributed to users and developers soon. Early adopters can transition to the new systems with confidence, as significant bugs have been addressed throughout the summer beta period. As always, users are advised to back up their data before installing major updates.
Related topics:
The Future of Diamond Production: $200,000 Machines Available on Alibaba
Review: reMarkable Paper Pro Delivers a Paper-Like Experience, but Comes at a Premium
Porsche-Backed Cylib Launches Battery Recycling Plant in Germany