We're already expecting big things from iOS 18 since it's already been characterized by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman as the biggest iOS update “since the original iPhone.” Gurman is probably as close to being an Apple insider as anyone who works for a major media outlet. We should see Apple's AI additions contribute to the huge changes to its iPhone operating system later this year. We're crossing our fingers and hoping Siri gets a major facelift.
In the
latest edition of its weekly newsletter Power OnGurman could have raised the hopes of iPhone users around the world by declaring that
iOS 18 will make the handset's home screen “more customizable”. Remember when Android users boasted about the ability to add widgets to their home screen? I should know because I was one of them. But in iOS 14, released in 2020, Apple gave iPhone users the ability to place
app widgets on the home screen.
As someone who has used primarily Android phones over the years, I would say that Apple has done a remarkable job creating widgets for iPhone users. With iOS 16 in 2022, Apple added the customizable lock screen, including the ability to add lock screen widgets. Customizable iOS lock screen features include wallpaper, clock (including fonts and
colors), lock screen widgets, and more.
Nostalgic clownfish wallpaper is part of this customizable lock screen
We should know everything about the new features coming iOS 18 when the WWDC 2024 developers conference is held in June. All eyes will be on the Keynote, especially when iOS 18 is introduced. And Gurman's comments today should have iPhone users looking forward to seeing how much more customizable Apple has made the Home screen. After the iOS 18 The public beta program starts in July or August, with the final version of the operating system expected to be released in September around the same time the iPhone 16 line begins shipping.
Many iPhone users, probably more than usual, will engage in the annual debate over whether it's worth risking installing a potentially buggy version of iOS just to be the first to take advantage of new features . Remember that beta versions of software are not stable, which means battery life may be significantly reduced and features you rely on daily may not work. And that doesn't even take into account the boot loops and phone hangs that occur.
So the next step is to wait until WWDC, when we'll get our first official look at iOS 18; the date of the conference could be revealed very soon. Check in often.
