According to leaks, iOS 18 promises to be a monumental upgrade for Apple’s mobile OS, incorporating advanced AI features and significant modifications to the user interface and interaction methods.
These updates could be just what iOS needs to stay competitive with Samsung and Google, who have already integrated substantial AI capabilities into their devices.
While the anticipated features sound exciting, there are five specific enhancements I’d love to see in iOS 18:
1. Advanced AI Photo Editing to Compete with Google
Google’s Pixel 8 leverages an impressive array of AI-powered photo editing tools, allowing users to move or remove objects, resize elements, unblur images, tweak lighting, and even alter the color of the sky.
While these tools aren’t flawless, they’re quite remarkable overall and are likely to improve as Google refines its AI capabilities.
Currently, iPhones lack similar functionalities in their native apps, which is why I hope iOS 18 will introduce comparable AI photo editing tools.
Though there’s a debate about whether extensive photo editing distorts reality, I believe in the value of perfecting images to better capture your intended moments.
While I doubt Apple will allow extreme photo manipulation, AI-enhanced lighting and color optimization seems plausible.
2. Siri Needs a ChatGPT-Like Transformation
Siri has historically lagged behind competitors like Google Assistant, Alexa, and even Bixby in understanding queries and executing commands. With the emergence of ChatGPT and other advanced AI chatbots, Siri feels increasingly outdated.
Therefore, a comprehensive AI overhaul for Siri is essential. I envision Siri handling complex, multi-part requests and maintaining a cohesive conversation thread.
Fortunately, leaks suggest that significant AI-driven improvements are in the works for Siri, potentially incorporating ChatGPT capabilities.
3. Real-Time Spam Call Alerts
Spam and scam calls are persistently irritating. While Android users can rely on third-party apps like Truecaller for live caller ID, iPhone users don’t enjoy the same convenience.
Although Truecaller is available for iPhone, it requires a subscription and manual queries via Siri to identify unknown numbers.
For iOS 18, I hope Apple permits apps like Truecaller to display live caller ID directly on the call screen, enabling easy identification and blocking of spam calls. Ideally, Apple would integrate a similar system into iOS, leveraging its vast user base to develop an extensive spam caller database. Unfortunately, there are no current indications that Apple is pursuing this.
4. Fully Customizable Control Center
Presently, the Control Center’s customization options are quite limited. With iOS 18, I wish for total customization capabilities, allowing users to select which shortcuts and controls appear and eliminating unnecessary elements.
There are rumors suggesting Apple is testing a more customizable Control Center, though it remains unclear if this will allow complete personalization.
5. A Revamped Camera App
Despite iOS’s reputation for intuitive design, the Camera app feels less user-friendly. Settings are scattered between the app and the main Settings menu, and essential features like burst mode and long exposures are somewhat hidden.
With iOS 18, I’d like to see an improved Camera app where features are more transparent and easily accessible.
Reports hint at a visual overhaul for iOS 18, making changes to the Camera app plausible. However, it’s uncertain if these changes will address the specific usability issues I’ve outlined.
As WWDC 2024 approaches, anticipation builds for the new capabilities iOS 18 will bring. Here’s hoping our wishlist items make the cut!
