Apple rolls out new software update: Check out iOS 18 features, compatible devices and more

Tech giant Apple on Monday released the next version of its operating system iOS 18 which is a free download and offers iPhone users around the world new ways to personalise their devicesThe announcement about iOS 18 was made during the iPhone 16 launch event on September 9 in California The software is now available to downloadiOS 18 featuresThe new software update brings with it an array of exciting featuresIt allows new ways to personalise iPhone with deeper customisation to the Home Screen and Control Center the biggestever redesign to Photos making it even easier to find and relive special moments and major enhancements to Messages and MailStarting next month iOS 18 will introduce Apple Intelligence the personal intelligence system that combines the power of generative models with personal context to deliver intelligence that is incredibly useful and relevant while protecting usersrsquo privacy and security Apple said in a statementUsers can also choose how the app icons and widgets are presented mdash light dark or with a coloured tint mdash or make app icons appear larger for a new streamlined lookThey can also access their favourite controls from the Action button and for the first time they can change the controls on the Lock Screen or remove them entirelyIn Messages formatting options like bold italic underline and strikethrough let users better convey tone allnew text effects bring words phrases and sentences to life emoji and sticker Tapbacks give users endless ways to react in a conversation and users can compose an iMessage to send laterFor times when cellular and WiFi connections arenrsquot available Messages via satellite connects users to a satellite in space right from the Messages app to send and receive texts emoji and Tapbacks over iMessage and SMSThe Phone app helps users stay organised with the ability to record and transcribe live calls making it easier to recall important details laterAvailable later this year categorisation in Mail organises messages to help users stay on top of their inboxCompatible devicesWhile iOS 18 will come preinstalled in the iPhone 16 series it is also available as a free software update for older modelsHere are the devices compatible with iOS 18 updateiPhone 15 seriesiPhone 14 seriesiPhone 13 seriesiPhone 12 seriesiPhone 11 seriesiPhone XS XS Max XRiPhone SE 2nd and 3rd generationHow to download iOS 18 update1 Go to the lsquoSettingsrsquo app2 Tap on lsquoGeneralrsquo and then on lsquoSoftware Updatersquo3 The update will be visible on the screen if your device is compatible4 Tap on lsquoDownload and Installrsquo5 Follow the onscreen instructionsThings to keep in mind before installing iOS 18 updateBack up all your data using iCloud or iTunesEnsure that you have a stable WiFi connection while installing the updateEnsure there is free storage space in your device and you phone is charged before installing the updateAlso ReadApple unveils iPhone 16 series heres all you need to knowWith agency inputs