Apple's forthcoming iOS 18 update, set to coincide with the anticipated iPhone 16 series, is deemed 'crucial' by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. Positioned as a pivotal upgrade, Gurman underscores its significance in compensating for the expected modest hardware enhancements in the iPhone 16. Apple's recent confirmation of AI integration in iOS 18 underscores the company's commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence for enhanced user experience.
Gurman, in his Power On newsletter, sheds light on the potential absence of extensive hardware upgrades in the iPhone 16. Consequently, he emphasizes the imperative for iOS 18 to be exceptionally compelling, acting as a driving force for users to transition from the current iPhone 15 lineup. Apple's deliberate pause in development aims to ensure the stability and bug-free nature of the iOS 18 code, indicative of the company's commitment to delivering a seamless user experience. This temporary halt has, however, impacted the development timeline, with implications for Apple's scheduled milestones leading up to the Worldwide Developers Conference in June.
While specifics regarding the novel features and designs in iOS 18 remain undisclosed, Gurman hints at 'major' advancements, departing from the iterative updates of previous iOS versions. The compatibility of these features with earlier iPhone models eligible for the update remains uncertain.
In the race for AI-powered capabilities, Apple faces competition from rivals who have already unveiled or plan to release such features. Notable examples include Microsoft Copilot on Windows 11 and Google Assistant with Bard. Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, is poised for AI enhancements courtesy of Apple's expansive Language Model (LLM). Additionally, reports suggest AI-backed upgrades for Apple's suite of applications, including Pages, Keynote, Numbers, and Apple Music. A comprehensive unveiling of Apple's software updates is anticipated in the coming months.