iOS 18 vs iOS 17: Key Differences and iOS 18 Updates 2024

Apple has released iOS 18, the latest update for iPhones. It comes with new features and improvements that make it a big step up from iOS 17. But what exactly has changed? Let’s take a look at the key differences and what’s new in iOS 18.

What’s New in iOS 18?

iOS 18 brings several exciting updates:

Apple Intelligence: Smarter tools for writing, editing photos, and using Siri.
New Photos App: Easier ways to manage and edit your photos.
Improved Messages: Features like customizing reactions, satellite messaging, and scheduling texts.
Better Maps: New maps for hiking, offline access, and custom routes.
Accessibility: More tools to help everyone use their iPhone easily.
AR and VR: Enhanced experiences for augmented and virtual reality.

Why Compare iOS 18 vs iOS 17?

Comparing iOS 18 and iOS 17 helps:

See the Changes: Understand what’s new and improved.
Spot Key Updates: Quickly find the most important new features.
Decide if You Should Upgrade: See if the new features are worth switching to iOS 18.
Recognize What Stays the Same: Notice how Apple keeps things familiar while adding new options.

iOS 18 Features Overview

Here’s a quick overview of what’s better in iOS 18:

Customization: More ways to arrange apps and widgets and control privacy.
Speed and Performance: Faster apps and smoother multitasking.
Security: Stronger privacy controls and detailed app reports.
Battery Life: Better battery management.
Communication: New messaging options and satellite messaging.
Navigation: Improved maps and new tools for better accessibility.

iOS 18 takes what was good in iOS 17 and makes it even better, offering a more user-friendly and feature-packed experience.

User Interface Upgrades in iOS 18

iOS 18 changes how your iPhone looks and feels, making it easier to customize and use.

UI Enhancements in iOS 18

iOS 18 adds some great new features:

Customizable Home Screen: Move apps around freely and leave spaces between them for a more personal layout.
Dynamic Widgets: New widgets show live data and are more interactive, making your Home Screen more useful.
Redesigned Control Center: You can now rearrange controls, add new quick actions, and organize settings more easily.
Icon Design Options: Change the shape, color, and theme of icons to match your wallpaper for a more consistent look.
Improved App Interactions: Resize icons and lock apps with Face ID to better suit your needs.

Comparing the iOS 18 and iOS 17 User Interfaces

Here’s how iOS 18 is different from iOS 17:

Customization: iOS 18 lets you arrange apps and widgets however you like, unlike iOS 17 which had a fixed layout.
Visual Consistency: The design in iOS 18 is more uniform, making everything look more consistent.
Control Center: iOS 18 gives you more options to customize the Control Center, while iOS 17 was simpler.
Dynamic Widgets: Widgets in iOS 18 are interactive and show live updates, while those in iOS 17 are static.

Customization: Widgets and Icons in iOS 18 vs iOS 17

iOS 18 makes it easier to personalize your iPhone:

Home Screen Layout: You can now arrange apps and widgets however you like in iOS 18, unlike iOS 17 which had a fixed grid.
Interactive Widgets: iOS 18 widgets are more functional and lively, compared to iOS 17.
Icon Customization: Change the look of your icons in iOS 18 with new options, something iOS 17 didn’t offer.
Streamlined Customization: Customizing your Home Screen is faster and easier in iOS 18 than it was in iOS 17.

Customization: iOS 18 vs iOS 17

Get all the iOS 18 methods for customizing your iPhone and iPad in this complete iOS 18 customization guide.

iPhone Lock Screen Customization

In iOS 18, you can change the date and time’s font, size, and color on your Lock Screen. You can also add widgets for quick info like weather or calendar events.

New Lock Screen Wallpaper Options in iOS 18

iOS 18 offers more wallpaper choices, including dynamic ones that change with the time of day or your activity.

Custom Widgets and Clocks

You can now add custom widgets and clocks to your Lock Screen, showing details like steps, battery, or appointments.

Depth Effect and Dark Mode Enhancements

iOS 18 introduces a depth effect that makes the time and date stand out on the wallpaper, along with a better Dark Mode for easier reading at night.

Dynamic Wallpapers and Rainbow Colors for Clocks

You can use dynamic wallpapers that change with your location or activity. There’s also an option to add rainbow colors to the Lock Screen clock.

iOS 18’s new customization options let you make your Lock Screen more personal and fun compared to iOS 17.

Performance and Battery Management

Faster Performance in iOS 18

iOS 18 makes your device run faster and smoother. Apps open quickly, animations look better, and there’s a new Game Mode for better gaming performance.

Better Battery Life: iOS 18 vs iOS 17

iOS 18 improves battery life with smarter power use, a better Low-Power Mode, and enhanced battery management while gaming. You can also see detailed battery stats.

Optimized for iPhone and iPad

iOS 18 makes both iPhones and iPads work better. It improves multitasking on iPads, boosts AR features, and updates health tracking. Your device runs more efficiently and lasts longer.

Privacy and Security Updates

Better Privacy Controls in iOS 18

iOS 18 makes it easier to manage your privacy. You can now choose exactly what info apps can access, like which contacts they can see. There’s also improved tracking protection and safer browsing on public Wi-Fi.

Security Boosts in iOS 18 vs iOS 17

iOS 18 adds new security features, like locking apps with Face ID or Touch ID, and blocking unwanted contacts. You can also manage your passwords more securely with the new Passwords app.

Staying Secure with System Updates

iOS 18 helps keep your device safe by enabling automatic updates, so you always have the latest security fixes and features to protect your data.

AI and Apple Intelligence in iOS 18

Download the best AI apps for iOS 18, compatible with all iPhones and iPads.

Apple Intelligence in iOS 18

Apple Intelligence in iOS 18 is Apple’s AI system that makes your iPhone and iPad smarter and more helpful, while keeping your data safe.

AI Features in iOS 18

iOS 18 introduces AI tools to help with writing tasks, like rewriting and summarizing text. It also offers smart replies and highlights important notifications.

Siri Upgrades with AI

Siri is better in iOS 18, understanding your needs more and handling more tasks. It also learns from what you do, giving you more personalized help.

Creative AI Tools

iOS 18 includes fun tools like Image Playground, where you can create images from text, and Genmoji, which lets you make custom emojis. These features make your digital experience more enjoyable.

Control Center and System Customization

Control Center Updates in iOS 18

The Control Center in iOS 18 lets you easily add, move, and resize controls. You can swipe through different screens for quick access to your favorite settings, music, and more.

Icon and Widget iOS 18 Customization Options

iOS 18 allows you to change the size and layout of app icons and widgets on your Home Screen. You can also use dynamic widgets that show live updates, making your screen more useful.

Advanced System iOS 18 Customization: Face ID and App Locking

You can now lock specific apps with Face ID and choose which apps need Face ID to open. This gives you better control over your privacy and security.

Multitasking and Cross-Device Integration in iOS 18

Multitasking Enhancements in iOS 18

Split-Screen Mode: Run two apps side by side for easier multitasking.
Picture-in-Picture: Watch videos or take calls in a small window while using other apps.
Improved App Switcher: Quickly find and switch between open apps with a new grid layout.
Interactive Widgets: Use widgets on the Home or Lock Screen to manage tasks without opening apps.

Cross-Device Integration: Seamless iPhone, iPad, and Mac Use

Handoff: Start a task on one device and pick it up on another easily.
Universal Clipboard: Copy text or images on one device and paste them on another.
Shared Experiences: Collaborate in real-time on documents and projects across devices.
Cross-Device Notifications: Get alerts on all your Apple devices so you never miss important updates.

Productivity Hacks: Maximizing Efficiency with iOS 18

Split-Screen for Research: Keep a web browser and document editor open side by side for easy research.
Focus Modes: Set up different profiles for work, personal time, or sleep to stay focused.
Interactive Widgets: Add widgets for quick access to apps and tasks directly from the Home Screen.
Siri Shortcuts: Use voice commands to quickly perform common tasks.
Picture-in-Picture: Keep videos visible while working on other things.

These features and tips help you make the most of your iOS 18 devices, making your tasks easier and more efficient.

Messaging and Communication Upgrades in iOS 18

Messages App Updates: Satellite Messaging, Text Styles, and Tapbacks

Satellite Messaging: Send and receive messages even without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, perfect for remote areas and emergencies.
Text Formatting: Add emphasis with bold, italics, underline, and strikethrough options to make your messages stand out.
Tapback Customization: Use any emoji or sticker as a Tapback reaction for more personalized responses.

Scheduling Messages and RCS Integration

Message Scheduling: Set messages to send at a later date and time, great for reminders or special occasions.
RCS Integration: Enjoy advanced messaging features like high-quality media sharing, read receipts, and improved group chats with support for RCS.

Enhancing Communication: iOS 18 vs iOS 17

Dynamic Effects: New text effects such as Big, Small, Shake, and more animate your messages for added fun.
Improved Link Cards: Colorful link cards and options for compact or full-size views make sharing links more engaging.
Genmoji and Image Playground: Use AI to create custom emojis and images directly in your messages for more creative expression.

iOS 18 brings a host of new features that make messaging more flexible and expressive, setting it apart from previous versions.

iOS 18 Health, Fitness, and Accessibility Features

Health and Fitness Improvements in iOS 18

New Health Metrics: iOS 18 adds tracking for breathing rate and hydration levels.
Personalized Workouts: Get tailored workout recommendations with Apple Fitness+ in iOS 18.
Mindfulness Tools: iOS 18 includes new mindfulness and stress management features.
Enhanced Workout Tracking: Better tracking for HIIT and yoga workouts in iOS 18.
Third-Party Device Integration: Sync with other health devices using iOS 18 for a complete health overview.

New Accessibility Options in iOS 18

Eye Tracking: Control your iOS 18 device using eye movements for better accessibility.
Music Haptics: Experience music through vibrations with iOS 18’s music haptics feature.
Voice Shortcuts: Create voice commands for easier navigation in iOS 18.
Custom Accessibility Settings: Adjust vision, hearing, and movement settings more easily with iOS 18.

Making iOS 18 User-Friendly for Everyone

User-Centric Design: iOS 18’s features are designed to meet diverse user needs.
Helpful Resources: Access guides to use iOS 18’s health and accessibility tools effectively.
Community Feedback: iOS 18 improvements are based on user feedback to ensure continuous enhancement.

iOS 18 enhances health tracking, fitness features, and accessibility, making the platform more user-friendly and inclusive.

iOS 18 Camera, Photos, and Media Creation Features

Camera and Photos Upgrades in iOS 18

Improved Camera Controls: iOS 18 adds a “Controls Menu” to quickly access favorite camera settings.
Advanced Image Processing: Better low-light performance and dynamic range for clearer, more vibrant photos.
Custom Memories Creation: Easily create personalized photo albums by typing a description; iOS 18 will assemble a narrative with music.
Clean Up Tool: Remove unwanted objects from photos directly in the Photos app.
Redesigned Photos App: New filtering options make it easier to organize and find images.

AR and VR Capabilities: What’s New in iOS 18?

Enhanced ARKit: Improved tools for more realistic AR experiences, including better object detection and lighting.
Interactive AR Experiences: Visualize furniture in your home or engage with educational apps through interactive AR.
VR Integration: New features for immersive VR experiences with compatible headsets, expanding gaming and virtual content options.

Enhancing Media Creation with iOS 18 vs iOS 17

User-Friendly Editing Tools: More intuitive editing features and the Clean Up tool simplify enhancing images and videos.
AI-Driven Features: AI suggestions for editing and organizing photos make it easier to create polished content.
Expanded Sharing Options: Improved sharing capabilities, including RCS support, enhance media sharing with Android users.
Customizable Memories: Create personalized photo albums based on user input, a new feature in iOS 18 compared to iOS 17.

iOS 18 upgrades make capturing, editing, and sharing media more intuitive and creative, offering enhanced tools for all your media needs.

Gaming, Entertainment, and Smart Home Integration in iOS 18

Gaming Improvements in iOS 18

Game Mode in iOS 18 uses system resources better for smoother gaming, which is not in iOS 17.
Bluetooth Controller Responsiveness is better in iOS 18, with faster response times, unlike in iOS 17.
Audio Enhancements in iOS 18 improve sound quality with AirPods, including Personalized Spatial Audio, which is a big upgrade from iOS 17.
ARKit in iOS 18 gives developers better tools for creating more immersive AR games, surpassing what was possible in iOS 17.

Entertainment Updates in iOS 18

The Redesigned TV App in iOS 18 is easier to use and has better content recommendations, improving on iOS 17.
iOS 18 brings Enhanced Spatial Audio for more immersive sound in movies, TV shows, and music, a feature that’s better than in iOS 17.
Dolby Atmos and Lossless Audio support is expanded in iOS 18, offering higher quality audio compared to iOS 17.
HomeKit Entertainment Features in iOS 18 let you control devices directly from the Home app, a feature more advanced than in iOS 17.

Smart Home Integration in iOS 18

The Home App in iOS 18 is redesigned for better organization and supports more HomeKit devices, improving on iOS 17.
iOS 18 adds better Automation Options, allowing for more flexible smart home rules, which is a notable improvement from iOS 17.
Siri Integration in iOS 18 is improved, handling more complex voice commands for smart home devices better than in iOS 17.
HomeKit Secure Video in iOS 18 supports more camera types and offers better video quality, an upgrade from iOS 17.

Safari and Browsing Enhancements in iOS 18

Safari Highlights: Automatic Information Detection in iOS 18

iOS 18 brings Highlights, a new feature that uses machine learning to automatically show important details like contact information and directions while you browse. This makes finding key information on a webpage faster and easier, unlike iOS 17 where you had to search manually.

This feature starts with U.S. English websites, with plans for more languages in future iOS 18 updates.

Reader View and Table of Contents in Safari on iOS 18

The Reader View in iOS 18 is improved with a Summarization feature that gives a quick overview of articles. The new Table of Contents feature helps users jump to specific sections in long articles, making reading and navigation easier compared to iOS 17, which didn’t have these features.

iOS 18 vs iOS 17: Browsing Experience Improvements

Automatic Information Detection: The Highlights feature in iOS 18 provides a more helpful and streamlined browsing experience, unlike iOS 17’s more manual approach.

Enhanced Reader Mode: iOS 18’s summarization and table of contents features make reading and finding content easier, improving on iOS 17.

Improved Privacy Controls: iOS 18 introduces Distraction Control to reduce pop-ups and notifications, offering a more focused browsing experience, a clear improvement over iOS 17.

Streamlined Interface: iOS 18 offers a more organized and user-friendly Safari interface, making it easier to use tools and features, in contrast to the more cluttered interface of iOS 17.

The Safari and browsing improvements in iOS 18, like Highlights, enhanced Reader View, and better privacy controls, are major upgrades from iOS 17, making browsing faster, easier, and more secure.

New Payment Features in iOS 18

Tap to Cash: Wallet App Updates in iOS 18

Instant Money Transfers: iOS 18 brings Tap to Cash, letting you transfer money instantly by just bringing two iPhones close together. This is a big upgrade from iOS 17, where you had to manually enter details.

Secure Authentication: iOS 18 uses Face ID, Touch ID, and passcodes to secure these transactions, which is an improvement over the security methods in iOS 17.

Apple Watch Integration: Tap to Cash also works with watchOS 11, so you can send and receive money using your Apple Watch, a new feature in iOS 18 that iOS 17 doesn’t support.

Control Center Access: You can now start Tap to Cash directly from the revamped Control Center in iOS 18, making it easier and quicker than in iOS 17.

Redesigned Event Tickets and Payment Methods in iOS 18

Event Guides: Tickets in the Wallet app now come with event guides that include venue maps, parking info, and food recommendations, improving on the basic ticket management in iOS 17.

Visual Redesign: The event ticket interface has been updated to be more user-friendly and informative in iOS 18, making it easier to use than in iOS 17.

New Payment Methods: iOS 18 supports redeeming points through Apple Pay, allowing you to use rewards points for purchases, a feature not available in iOS 17.

Managing Your Finances with iOS 18

Installment Payments: You can view and manage installment payment options directly in the Wallet app, which helps with budgeting for large purchases, unlike in iOS 17.

Rewards Tracking: iOS 18 adds rewards points tracking to the Wallet app, so you can easily see and use your rewards, offering more features than iOS 17.

Apple Pay Integration: Apple Pay in iOS 18 now works with third-party browsers and apps, letting you complete transactions by scanning a code, which is an improvement over iOS 17’s payment options.

Conclusion

iOS 18 makes your iPhone even better with smarter AI, more ways to customize, and stronger privacy. Compared to iOS 17, it’s more user-friendly and tailored to your needs. With improved photo management, messaging, and security, iOS 18 offers a more personalized and secure experience. As we wait for its 2024 release, iPhone users can look forward to a big upgrade that enhances everyday use.