Apple is known for its cutting-edge iOS updates, and the upcoming release of iOS 18 has everyone excited about the new features and improvements it will bring. As we anticipate the unveiling of Apple’s latest operating system, there are certain key elements that we believe are essential for iOS 18 to maintain its status as the top mobile operating system in the market. In this article, we will discuss the crucial components that iOS 18 should incorporate to outshine its competitors and continue to amaze Apple users worldwide.
The time has come for Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), where we expect to hear significant announcements about the next major iteration of the iPhone’s operating system, iOS 18. While AI took center stage at Google’s recent I/O developer conference with the introduction of Android 15, it is now Apple’s turn to showcase both AI and non-AI updates coming to the iPhone. After living with iOS 17 for several months, users have experienced both high points, such as the StandBy Mode and iMessage stickers, and low points like the overheating issue that affected some iPhones running iOS 17. As we eagerly await iOS 18, we look forward to seeing how it will enhance our iPhone experience and address any existing issues.
With rumors circulating about iOS 18 potentially being a significant upgrade, surpassing even the iPhone 16, there is anticipation for Apple to impress users with new AI capabilities. However, instead of speculating about Apple’s plans for the future, we have gathered input from CNET’s top iOS experts and iPhone users to outline our desired features for iOS 18.
Enhanced multitasking capabilities for the iPhone Pro Max:
The Dynamic Island feature was a notable addition, but leveraging the Pro Max’s expansive screen further could greatly benefit users. Introducing an optimized version of Apple’s Disappear Over feature for the larger iPhone would allow users to allocate more screen space to a single app while simultaneously accessing another. This feature could prove valuable for tasks like checking emails while monitoring incoming Slack messages.
Expanding the functionality of the Action button:
The Action button, introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, offers the ability to trigger one shortcut at a time. While it currently serves basic functions like toggling between ringer and silent modes, there is potential for it to support multiple shortcuts. By enabling the Action button to respond to different input clicks, users could customize its actions, such as activating the flashlight with a double-long press. This added flexibility would enhance the button’s utility and provide users with more ways to interact with their iPhones.
Further improvements to StandBy Mode:
StandBy Mode introduced in iOS 17 has been a valuable feature, but expanding its capabilities in iOS 18 would be beneficial. Enhancements could include additional settings or customization options to tailor the StandBy Mode experience to individual preferences. By enhancing StandBy Mode, Apple can offer users more control over their device’s power management and optimize battery usage.
iOS 18 holds the promise of exciting new features and enhancements that will elevate the iPhone user experience. By incorporating advanced multitasking functions, expanding the functionality of the Action button, and refining StandBy Mode capabilities, Apple can deliver a compelling update that surpasses user expectations and solidifies iOS 18 as a standout mobile operating system.iOS 17 has transformed my iPhone into a versatile hub with StandBy Mode. This feature has become a daily essential for me, providing quick access to the weather, time, and podcasts. However, there is room for improvement in StandBy Mode.
It would be beneficial for Apple to integrate Messages and Mail into StandBy Mode. Currently, when a text comes in while the iPhone is in StandBy Mode, you receive a notification. If you don’t tap the notification in time, you have to exit StandBy Mode to read and respond to the message. A StandBy Mode widget for Messages that displays full messages and allows for replies without leaving StandBy Mode would enhance the user experience. Similarly, a Mail widget for StandBy Mode to view emails and new messages would be a valuable addition.
Enhancing Siri’s capabilities is another area for improvement. As a busy working parent, a smarter Siri could significantly simplify daily tasks. With the integration of advanced language models in Siri, the potential for handling more complex tasks is promising. Imagine Siri reminding you to buy groceries as you pass a store or suggesting family-friendly and pet-friendly restaurants in a specific location.
For bilingual users, an improved Siri language detection feature would be highly beneficial. Currently, Siri struggles to accurately identify the language being spoken, resulting in inaccurate translations. Enhancing Siri’s language recognition abilities would greatly improve user experience, especially for those receiving messages in different languages.
The “Check In” feature in iOS 17 is a notable addition that allows users to inform a contact of their whereabouts. However, expanding this feature to enable group check-ins would be a valuable enhancement. Being able to share your location with multiple contacts simultaneously would be beneficial in various scenarios.
Additionally, the ability to schedule texts in Messages would be a convenient feature for users communicating across different time zones. Avoiding the hassle of calculating time differences when sending messages to friends and family in other regions would streamline communication. Moreover, for night shift workers, scheduling texts to avoid disturbing recipients during their sleep would be a practical addition to the messaging functionality.
In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to schedule text messages is becoming increasingly essential. Many messaging apps already offer this feature, including Android, but Apple lags behind in this regard. While there is a workaround available in the form of a Shortcut on iPhones, having to rely on a workaround diminishes the user experience. It’s time for Apple to catch up with its competitors and allow users to schedule messages for later delivery. This feature would be particularly helpful for individuals who communicate with others in different time zones or work irregular hours.
Introducing a New Camera App
A new camera app is needed for the iPhone.
James Martin/CNET
Apple should consider revamping the Camera app on the iPhone. While it has been known for its simplicity and user-friendly interface, the app has become crowded with additional features like ProRaw photos and ProRes video recording. It’s time for Apple to create a separate camera app that caters to users who require more advanced controls and settings. This new app could serve as a platform for photographers and creatives to access a wider range of features beyond the basic camera functions.
Other smartphone manufacturers, such as Sony and Samsung, have successfully implemented this approach with separate camera apps for their devices. It’s now Apple’s turn to follow suit and provide users with a dedicated camera app that meets the needs of professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.
— Patrick Holland
