These Are the Key Features of iOS 18, macOS Sequoia and iPadOS

These Are the Key Features of iOS 18, macOS Sequoia and iPadOS

At this year's WWDC, Apple revealed several significant developments, primarily focusing on software upgrades slated for release in the coming months.

Apple announced a new Mac operating system: macOS Sequoia, and the following updates to the rest of the range: iOS 18, iPadOS 18, VisionOS 2, watchOS 11 and tvOS 18. These are the main updates 

iOS 18: What's New?

 

iOS 18 will introduce customizable home screen icons, dark themes, and contrast colors. The Control Center will support third-party apps, and the Messages app will feature scheduled messages, text animations, emojis, and RCS support. Apple will enable SMS via satellite for non-emergencies. The Mail app will categorize messages by content like Gmail, and users can lock and hide apps with FaceID or TouchID. Additionally, a new Game Mode will optimize system resources for gaming.

© Apple

iPadOS 18: Minor Tweaks for Apple's Tablet

Expectations for significant changes with iPadOS 18 were dashed as Apple introduced only a handful of updates. A floating icon bar will accompany full-screen apps, and SharePlay enables remote control akin to TeamViewer. Additionally, Apple finally adds a calculator for iPads, paired with Math Notes allowing users to write equations with the Apple Pencil for instant solutions.

© Apple

macOS Sequoia: A Familiar Feel to Windows

macOS Sequoia brings several anticipated features, including iPhone Mirroring, allowing screen display and control, akin to Microsoft's Your Phone. Users can also pin windows to screen edges with a drag-and-drop, a feature borrowed from Windows. The update integrates new features from iPadOS and iOS, such as updated Messages and Math Notes. Additionally, a more intuitive password manager replaces Keychain, accessible through settings on iOS and iPadOS, and via a standalone app on macOS.

© Apple

watchOS 11: Health and Fitness Take Center Stage

watchOS 11 will evolve, prioritizing sports with the Training Load module for progress assessment. Users can now pause activity ring completion to prevent frustration when unable to meet goals. Additionally, Vital Signs will monitor five health metrics continuously for a comprehensive overview and tracking over time.

visionOS 2 and an Official Release Date in the UK

Apple introduced visionOS 2, enhancing productivity and introducing immersive experiences like transforming photos into interactive ones with AI. It offers intuitive navigation, such as tapping to return home and flipping your hand to access the control center. The update includes train support for travel mode and promises higher resolution and mouse support for the Mac virtual display feature.

© Apple

Customers in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the UK can pre-order the Vision Pro on June 28th for a release date of July 12th, priced at £3,499.