Apple has officially rolled out iOS 18, which is packed with exciting features. But before you get too excited, it's worth checking if your iPhone is compatible. The latest operating system comes pre-installed on the new iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models, available from September 20. For older iPhone users, here's what you need to know about installing the update and whether you can access Apple's new features.
As with previous years, some older iPhones will miss out on this update. For instance, last year's iOS 17 left iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X owners in the cold. This meant they couldn't upgrade and missed some exciting new features. If your device is not supported by iOS 18, you may still be able to use your phone without any of the latest features.
On a brighter note, Apple is also improving some older devices. One such update, set to be released later this year, will allow existing AirPods Pro headphones to function as hearing aids following approval from the FDA.
Keep reading if you're curious whether your iPhone can handle iOS 18 and the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence features. Apple has also issued a firmware update for AirPods Pro 2, so check if your device is eligible for the upgrade.
iPhones compatible with iOS 18
The good news is that if your iPhone runs iOS 17, it should still be able to support iOS 18. Apple has confirmed that the following models will be compatible:
- iPhone SE (2nd generation or later)
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
In short, if your iPhone was made before 2017—like the iPhone 8 or iPhone X—you won't be able to update to iOS 18. However, your phone will still function without the latest improvements.
While you can upgrade to iOS 18, only some iPhones will benefit from the new Apple Intelligence features. Unless you own the latest models—such as the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or iPhone 16—your phone won't support this technology yet.
The first Apple Intelligence features will be rolled out in stages. Starting in October, some new iPhones will receive the update in English, with availability expanding to Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK by December. Other languages, including French, Spanish, Japanese, and Chinese, will follow in 2025. Unfortunately, these updates won't soon reach the EU due to ongoing discussions between Apple and European regulators concerning the EU's Digital Markets Act.
What's new in iOS 18?
While Apple Intelligence may be the headline feature of iOS 18, several other noteworthy updates are available now for all compatible iPhones.
- Passwords app: A new, dedicated app for securely storing passwords and credentials. This simplifies access and security alerts previously found under the Settings menu.
- Improved Messages: The app now supports bold, italic, underlined, and strikethrough text formatting. You can also add animations to your texts. Apple has also introduced Rich Communication Services (RCS), which enhances compatibility with Android devices.
- Redesigned Photos: The Photos app allows you to create and pin custom collections like holiday or wedding albums. It also features a grid layout instead of the older tabbed view, making browsing your images easier.
- Customised home screen layout: A new option allows you to arrange your apps more creatively. You can leave blank spaces on your home screen to highlight your wallpaper or tint app icons with your favourite colour. Additionally, you can enlarge app icons for easier access.
Beyond these features, Apple staples such as Maps, Safari, and Calendar have been improved. If you want to discover more hidden features, tech writers are already sharing their favourites based on the iOS 18 beta.
macOS Sequoia and other Apple updates
If you're wondering when you can update your other Apple devices, here's the timeline:
- macOS Sequoia: Available from September 16.
- iPadOS 18: Also launching on September 16.
- watchOS 11: The Apple Watch update is available from the same day.
- tvOS 18: This is still in public beta testing, with no official release date confirmed yet.
- visionOS 2: Set for release on September 16.
If you use AirPods Pro, look for the latest firmware update, which will enable new features compatible with iOS 18. While the much-anticipated hearing aid functionality may not be available immediately, it will be included in a later update.
