iOS 18 is the upcoming major release of Apple’s iOS operating system expected to be launched in September 2024. As with every iOS update, there is excitement around which devices will be compatible as well as speculation about new features.
iOS 18 Compatible Devices
While Apple has not officially confirmed which devices will support iOS 18, based on previous iOS release history we can make some educated guesses.
iOS 18 will be compatible with the following devices:
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max (to be released in 2024)
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max (released in 2023)
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max (released in 2022)
- iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max (released in 2021)
- iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max (released in 2020)
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max (released in 2019)
- iPhone SE 3rd Generation (2022)
- iPhone SE 2nd Generation (2020)
Apple typically provides 5-6 years of software support for iPhones, so iOS 18 will likely drop support for iPhone models released in 2018 and earlier. The iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max are borderline as they approach 6 years old when iOS 18 launches. Support could go either way for those models.
Expected iOS 18 Features
While iOS 18 features have not been officially confirmed by Apple, early reports indicate a major focus on AI and machine learning capabilities:
Enhanced AI Capabilities
- A smarter Siri with more advanced conversational abilities
- Integration of generative AI to enable new functionality
- On-device processing to enable complex AI features while protecting privacy
- AI improvements to apps like Photos, Maps, etc.
Other Potential Features
- Support for RCS messaging between iPhones and Android phones
- Collaborative playlists in Apple Music
- Expanded CarPlay functionality
- Further integration with Matter smart home devices
- New wallpapers and design changes
Apple is said to view iOS 18 as an “ambitious” release that promises “major new features and designs.” Exactly what those entail remains to be seen, but if early reports hold true, iOS 18 could introduce some of the biggest iOS improvements in years, particularly around AI.
Stay tuned for more details on iOS 18 as its expected June 2024 announcement at WWDC approaches. We will update this article as new information becomes available about supported devices and expected features.