Apple is gearing up for a significant overhaul of its iPhone operating system with the arrival of iOS 18, as reported by Bloomberg’s tech expert, Mark Gurman.
In the subscriber-exclusive Q&A of the Power On newsletter, Gurman shared insights about the upcoming update, suggesting it could be the most significant software transformation in iPhone history.
He writes,
I’m told that the new operating system is seen within the company as one of the biggest iOS updates — if not the biggest — in the company’s history.
Though specific details about the features in iOS 18 are currently under wraps, Gurman hinted at forthcoming revelations. A major shift is the integration of Rich Communication Services (RCS), enabling iPhones to smoothly communicate with Android devices and vice versa—a development long urged by Google and other companies, possibly materializing in iOS 18.
Having affirmed its commitment, Apple announced in November 2023 its plans to integrate RCS into the iMessage app for iPhones, slated for release in 2024 alongside iOS 18. RCS support will facilitate seamless sharing of high-resolution photos and videos, incorporate read receipts and typing indicators, and enhance group chat experiences, fostering connectivity between Android and iPhone users.
Additionally, Apple is exploring the realm of generative AI technology, with potential applications in both Siri and the Messages app. Mark Gurman anticipates that this innovative AI will augment the capabilities of these applications, enabling them to handle queries and autonomously complete sentences.
Gurman discloses Apple’s exploration of integrating AI features into various applications, including Apple Music, Pages, Keynote, and Xcode.Specifically for Siri, the Information suggests the incorporation of large language models to automate complex tasks, enhancing integration with the popular Shortcuts app. Anticipated to roll out in September, these updates align with Apple’s tradition of unveiling new iPhones and accompanying software, such as the upcoming iOS 18.