Apple Releases First iOS 18 Beta Version

Apple has released the first iOS 18 Public Beta, allowing iPhone users to test out a series of new features.

iPhone users can register through Apple's website using their Apple ID and download it to their devices. However, according to 9to5Mac, they need to back up their data before downloading, as this version may be unstable.

New Features in iOS 18 Public Beta

Home Screen Customization

iOS 18 introduces new ways for users to better personalize their iPhone home screen. Users can place app icons and widgets anywhere on the home screen grid, eliminating gaps and giving full control over where icons and widgets appear.

Users can also "color" app icons and widgets on the home screen, choosing any preferred color or using the new dark mode that turns most home screen app icons to a dark background.

New Control Center Features

The Control Center has been overhauled, giving users full control over the layout for an enhanced experience. With more pages, users can swipe through each page to quickly select the desired feature.

Additionally, the Control Center includes a new Application Programming Interface (API) that allows third-party apps to set up quick access. For example, the Ford app can use this API to provide some control functions like starting the car, opening the trunk, and more, accessible with a swipe.

Lock Screen Customization

As part of the Control Center update, iOS 18 enables users to customize the two control buttons on the lock screen edges. Beyond pre-set options, Apple allows third-party buttons. All these control functions can also be assigned to the Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max.

New Features in iMessages

Apple has added several customization features to iMessages, including new text effects that can be applied to individual words in a message. Options include large, small, shake, nod, explode, ripple, bloom, and wiggle. Users can also add formatting like bold, underline, italics, and strikethrough to any letter, word, or phrase in iMessage.

The Tapbacks system has been improved in iOS 18, allowing users to respond to messages with emojis or stickers. Additionally, users can now schedule messages to be sent later, rather than immediately.

RCS Support

For the first time, iMessage supports RCS messaging with other platforms. RCS is an internet-based messaging protocol between mobile carriers, considered the modern industry standard for messaging and calling across platforms, and for transmitting media content like emojis, videos, and photos.

Apple's adoption of RCS ensures seamless and secure messaging between iPhone and Android, better group chat support, and high-quality photo and video sharing. This feature aims to eliminate the green bubble issue in previous messaging. However, RCS support will vary by carrier worldwide.

iPhone Mirroring

iPhone Mirroring is a much-anticipated feature, especially for those frequently using both iPhone and Mac. Users can now interact with their iPhone on a Mac, receive notifications, and transfer files between the two devices.

SharePlay Enhancements

iOS 18 enhances the screen-sharing experience with SharePlay, allowing users to draw on someone else's screen or control it. This feature is particularly useful for technicians or those who want to assist others remotely.

New Photos App

Apple describes Photos on iOS 18 as the most significant update to date. The app's interface is now more intuitive, organizing photos by themes such as Recent Days, People & Pets, and Trips.

The search function has been completely revamped, allowing users to search by a combination of people, places, and more.

Password Management

After a long wait, Apple has finally provided a dedicated password manager app called Passwords on iOS 18, as well as iPadOS 18, macOS Sequoia, and visionOS 2. This app allows users to easily access all their passwords, passkeys, and other login information. Additionally, it stores wifi passwords.

New Security Features

On iOS 18, users can lock any app using Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, meaning no one can open the app without the device owner's authentication.

iOS 18 also supports hidden apps. When hidden, an app stops sending notifications or any content until reopened. The app remains in the App Library, requiring Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode to open.

Furthermore, users can choose which contacts to share with an app instead of granting access to all contacts. They can also pair Bluetooth accessories without letting the app know about other devices on the network. The redesigned Privacy & Security interface makes it easier for users to manage information shared with apps.