iOS 18 Rolls Out Globally with New Features—But Apple Intelligence is Missing
Apple rolls out iOS 18 globally with new features like home screen customization and a refreshed Control Centre. However, Apple Intelligence is delayed until iOS 18.1.
Apple has started rolling out iOS 18 to iPhone users across the globe. The update introduces several exciting features, including advanced home screen customization, an improved Control Centre, and redesigned apps. However, Apple Intelligence, an AI suite promised during WWDC 2024, is missing from the initial release and will be included in iOS 18.1, expected to arrive by mid-October. Apple cites technical and regulatory challenges as reasons for the delay.
Apple Begins Global iOS 18 Rollout, Missing Key Feature for Now
Apple has officially started distributing its highly anticipated iOS 18 update to iPhone users worldwide, including customers in India. The update, first revealed at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2024, introduces a host of exciting new features, from customization options to a refreshed Control Centre, and redesigned apps.
Despite its global availability across more than 190 regions, the update is notably missing a key feature—Apple Intelligence—which many users had eagerly awaited. Here’s everything you need to know about downloading the update and what it brings to the table.
How to Download iOS 18
Installing iOS 18 on your iPhone is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:
Open the Settings app.
Navigate to “General” and tap “Software Update.”
Your device will check for available updates. If iOS 18 is available, tap “Download & Install.”
Agree to the terms and conditions, and the installation process will begin.
Once installed, iOS 18 enhances your device with improved home and lock screen personalization, new widgets, and a more customizable Control Centre.
Which Devices are Compatible?
All iPhones that previously supported iOS 18 developer and public beta updates are included in this global rollout. This includes the latest models, like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, as well as older models such as the iPhone XR. Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 series, set to release on September 20, will also feature iOS 18 pre-installed. Here’s a full list of compatible devices:
iPhone 16 series
iPhone 15 series
iPhone 14 series
iPhone SE (2022)
iPhone 13 series
iPhone 12 series
iPhone 11 series
iPhone XS Max
iPhone XS
iPhone XR
iPhone SE (2020)
What to Expect from iOS 18?
The iOS 18 update brings a variety of impressive new features. The standout among them is an upgraded Siri that leverages generative AI to draft emails and provide more detailed responses. Users will also enjoy more home screen customization options and a new AI-driven “Image Playground,” which allows for creative image editing with special effects.
Additionally, iOS 18 will support multiple languages, including French, Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish, making it more accessible to a global audience.
Where is Apple Intelligence?
One of the most anticipated features, Apple Intelligence, is conspicuously absent from the initial release of iOS 18. Apple Intelligence, an AI suite promoted heavily at WWDC 2024, was expected to offer tools like object removal from images, text generation, and webpage summarization. However, this functionality will not be included until the iOS 18.1 update, which is expected to begin beta testing next month in the US, before expanding globally.
Many iPhone users were particularly looking forward to the Image Playground feature, powered by generative AI, to edit and create images. Unfortunately, that feature will also have to wait until 2025.
Why the Delay?
Apple attributes the delay of Apple Intelligence to technical challenges and regional regulations. Some features, like object removal and text generation, are facing compliance issues in certain regions, contributing to the postponement.
What’s Next for iOS 18?
Apple has assured users that iOS 18.1, complete with Apple Intelligence, will launch by mid-October. In the meantime, users can still enjoy all the other enhancements iOS 18 offers, such as its more intuitive Control Centre and advanced customization features.
For now, the world eagerly awaits the release of Apple Intelligence, while iPhone users can start experiencing iOS 18 by downloading it today.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Apple and iOS are trademarks of Apple Inc. and all information is based on publicly available sources at the time of publication. Any delays or changes to the iOS rollout are subject to Apple’s official announcements.)
Also Read: iOS 18: Apple’s Latest Update Brings Smarter AI, Enhanced Privacy, and Customization