iOS 18: All the features, updates, and tips you need before iOS 26 arrives

Apple announced iOS 26 at its WWDC 2025, set for release this fall, with a striking new Liquid Glass design and a Games app. But before you get excited about what’s next, here’s a detailed look at everything you need to know about the current iOS 18, which continues to power millions of iPhones globally as of mid-2025.

From its release alongside the iPhone 16 lineup in 2024 to a string of feature-packed updates, iOS 18 has added a slew of enhancements, including Apple Intelligence, Genmoji, Image Playground, and more. Below is your cheat sheet to make the most of iOS 18 before you move on to iOS 26.

iOS 18 updates: What’s new?

Since launch, Apple has rolled out multiple updates for iOS 18, improving security, adding AI features, and refining user experience.

Key updates include:

• iOS 18.6: Minor improvements expected

• iOS 18.5: Small feature tweaks

• iOS 18.4.1: Critical security fixes

• iOS 18.4: Added Apple News Food and new emojis

• iOS 18.3: AI notification summaries and security updates

• iOS 18.2: Introduced Genmoji, Apple Intelligence, Image Playground, and integrated ChatGPT into Siri

• iOS 18.1: Call recording, proofreading in Messages, and more

Best features in iOS 18 you can use today

1. Apple Intelligence and Genmoji

With iOS 18.2, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 users got Apple Intelligence — AI that helps draft and edit messages, summarize notifications, and create personalized emojis (Genmoji).

2. Image Playground

Create custom illustrations directly on your iPhone.

3. Call recording

Record calls natively on your iPhone with iOS 18.1.

4. Smarter Maps

Plan custom routes, discover new hiking paths, and more.

5. Custom Lock Screens & Widgets

Redesigned Control Center and flexible Home and Lock Screen layouts.

6. AI-powered Mail & Notes

Get mail sorted into smart categories and organize Notes with collapsible sections.

7. Apple News Food & Sudoku

iOS 18.4 introduced recipe inspiration and classic games inside Apple News.

Tips & tricks for iOS 18

• Control apps & settings more easily: Use Open App shortcuts for better Lock Screen customization.

• Schedule texts: Send messages at the perfect time.

• Hide apps & banners: Greater privacy and fewer distractions.

• Mirror iPhone to Mac: Seamlessly share your screen.

• Customize emoji reactions & text effects: Add personality to your messages.

• Proofread & edit messages with AI: Apple Intelligence helps you communicate better.

Should you upgrade to iOS 18 if you haven’t yet?

If your iPhone supports iOS 18 (iPhone XS and newer), and you haven’t updated yet — you’re missing out on the most advanced AI features Apple has shipped so far. Before upgrading, don’t forget to back up your device.

• Check compatibility: Settings > General > About

• Back up your iPhone: iCloud or iTunes

• Update: Settings > General > Software Update

What’s next?

With iOS 26 arriving this fall, Apple is gearing up to transform your iPhone experience again — but iOS 18 remains a robust, feature-rich OS worth exploring fully.

Check back here for more iOS 18 updates, guides, and tips as they roll out — and stay tuned for everything coming with iOS 26.