Apple may make major changes to Settings, Control Centre and more with iOS 18

iOS 18 iPhone

Next week, Apple CEO Tim Cook will take the stage to share the company’s AI strategy at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 event. The Cupertino-based tech giant will showcase how it’s chosen to integrate AI technology into its devices and software, including its expected historic partnership with Open AI to integrate ChatGPT in iOS.

Traditionally, Apple uses this event to announce updates related to its platforms and introduce new hardware. However, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the focus would be entirely on the software advancements, including iOS 18 and artificial intelligence features.

He also revealed that Apple plans to overhaul the Settings apps for both iOS and macOS and aims to offer a cleaner user interface with enhanced search capabilities. The Control Center in iOS will also see new design and visual upgrades, with a new music widget and improvements in the operation of smart home appliances.

The Messages app is also expected to allow animate individual words in their text messages, adding a dynamic and personalised touch to conversations. Apple will introduce new Tapback icons, providing new reaction emojis. The Photos and the Mail apps should also get an interface makeover, which will provide a more streamlined experience.

Apple’s digital assistant, Siri is also expected to receive an AI revamp. It will leverage Apple’s large language models (LLMs) and will allow Siri to control individual features inside applications. However, this feature update is expected is arrive by the next year.

Other notable features likely to come with iOS 18 include smart recaps for missed notifications, AI-generated transcription capabilities for the Voice Memo app, and other features.