In Short
- Apple expects to announce iOS 18, at their WWDC 2024 event.
- The latest iOS update is expected to include features such as AI integration, as well as the ability to send messages via RCS.
- A new report suggests it is likely that iOS 18 will also include significant updates to Apple Maps.
Apple recently announced the dates for its highly-anticipated WWDC 2024 conference. The conference will take place between June 10 and 14 and Apple is likely to announce some thrilling announcements. One of the most significant announcements to be expected at WWDC will be the first glimpse into the new OS update that will be available for iPhones, iOS 18. Based on speculation and leaks, iOS 18 will be the largest iPhone OS update Apple has ever released. The update is said to include inclusion of AI features as well as RCS messaging support and much more.
In addition to the rumoured features that are expected to be included in iOS 18, a recent report by MacRumors indicates that Apple plans to include topographic maps in Apple Maps, the Apple Maps app for iOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS 2. In addition, iPhone users may soon have the option of creating custom routes using Apple Maps, enabling them to create and view their own routes prior to taking off on their journeys.
Topographic maps
Apple first introduced topographic maps with watchOS. Since their launch they have evolved into an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts, with precise trails, elevation contours and landmarks. All of these are extremely useful for precise navigation when doing activities like hiking. Apple has been steadily expanding their coverage throughout in the United States.
However, this year, new reports suggest possibility of extending the map to iOS, macOS, and visionOS platforms. The analyst Nicolas lvarez suggests in his report that the code used for topographic maps was put into place earlier in the year, but it was only enabled in watchOS 10. The feature was inactive for iOS as well as macOS at the time. But, the recent update to the software in iOS 18, macOS 15 as well as visionOS 2 reveals that the feature is now operational. This is also a sign of the availability of more topographic maps in the coming iOS 18 upgrade, as stated by MacRumors.
Custom route creation
Alongside the topographic map, Apple is reportedly set to launch custom route creation using iOS 18. This feature will enable iPhone users to create their own routes for their trips, offering alternatives to options that are suggested from Apple Maps. Presently, Apple Maps offers multiple routes to destinations however, with iOS 18, users will have full control over the specifics of their travel route.
It is interesting to note that the expected enhancements for Apple Maps, including topographic maps and custom routes are only a small part of the bigger picture in iOS 18. These upgrades aren’t limited to the usual emphasis on customizing in addition to AI features. Based on MacRumors, iOS 18 will at first, let users to arrange icons for apps in the main screen and as well as creating space between them. In addition, iOS 18 is set to implement the Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging standard, and will incorporate the design features of visionOS.
In all, according media reports, in the new iPhone operating system Apple hopes to increase the flexibility of its home screens and provide an experience that is more user-centric.
The full set of features available for iOS 18 are confidential until Apple’s official announcement at the Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) in June. Along with iOS 18, Apple is scheduled to announce the updates of iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, visionOS 2, and macOS. Following the announcement, the beta versions for developers of these OS upgrades are expected to be available to be released in June, with the public release expected in the fall, which could coincide with the release of the iPhone 16 series.
Conclusion
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