Recently, it was reported that Apple has temporarily stopped the development of iOS 18 to prioritize fixing bugs in the current software version. However, this is not said to affect the release schedule on the next-generation software version. Now, reliable analyst Mark Gurman in his latest Power On newsletter reveals Apple’s plans for next year’s iOS 18 and iPhone 16. The iOS 18 is said to be the biggest update in years to compensate the lack of any major hardware changes on the next-generation iPhones.
iOS 18 is reported to be the most ambitious update in years
Apple aims to compete against Google and OpenAI in the generative AI space. The Cupertino-based tech giant is planning to introduce generative AI integrated within software to catch up to its competitors. In simple terms, iOS 18 will bring technology associated with generative AI to iPhones. However, it remains to be seen what new features will be available. Gurman stated that iOS 18 will come after ‘a few years of modestly sized updates’. Apple’s senior management internally has also described the iOS 18 as “ambitious and compelling” packed with major new features and design along with security and performance improvements.
The report also adds that the next-generation iPhone 16 will not pack any significant hardware changes. Apple aims to make the iOS 18 loaded with major new features to be the unique selling proposition of the iPhone 16. Hence, the latest information also explains the recent report of Apple halting the development of iOS 18 to eliminate any bugs. The company was last forced to make such a move in 2019.
Apple’s development cycle comprises of four milestones before the Worldwide Developer’s Conference in June. Four of these are for adding new features and two are focussed on bug fixing with each milestone lasting six weeks. This time, the company hit the brakes right after the first milestone gaining an extra week to fix issues.
Gurman also added that the next version of the software for iPad could be groundbreaking.
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- Apple iPad refresh may include OLED iPad Pros and 12.9″ iPad Air
- Leaked details reveal Apple’s second-gen Vision Pro headset, codenamed Project Alaska
- Apple is reportedly testing iPhone 16 Pro with a hole-punch cutout
