Apple releases iOS/iPadOS 18.0, iOS/iPadOS 17.7, watchOS 11.0 and tvOS 18.0

Apple today released the final versions of iOS/iPadOS 18.0 (Build 22A3354), watchOS 11.0 (Build 22R349) and tvOS 18.0 (Build 22J357). iOS/iPadOS 17.7 (Build 21H16) has also been released – the manufacturer is thus making important security fixes available for the official version branch of the iPhone and iPad operating system. The HomePod software 18.0 (Build 22J357) can also be downloaded.

iOS 18 is compatible with all iPhones running iOS 17. iPadOS 18 does not run on the 6th generation iPad, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, and iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd generation, compared to version 17. watchOS 11 is not supported on the Apple Watch Series 4 (built in 2018), Apple Watch Series 5 (built in 2019), and Apple Watch SE 1st generation (built in 2020).

iOS 18 is compatible with all iPhones running iOS 17.
Image: Apple.

iOS 18 introduces support for the Rich Communication Services (RCS) communication protocol. RCS is considered the successor to SMS in the industry (and has been supported by Google for years) and, in addition to text messages, also allows the transmission of audio and video files and other data such as location information. Apple's support now significantly increases the importance of RCS and improves interoperability between iOS and Android devices.

In addition, iOS/iPadOS 18 offers a completely redesigned Photos app as well as more customization options for the home screen, lock screen and control center and adds support for messages via satellite (initially only in the US and Canada), a “Send Later” function in the Messages app and a standalone password app. iPadOS 18 gets the Math Notes function in the Notes app: This allows users to type mathematical expressions or write them with Apple Pencil and, according to Apple, they are immediately solved in their own handwriting. There are also numerous other innovations and improvements.

Installation is carried out as usual via the update function of the respective operating system. Under iOS/iPadOS, users can choose whether they want to install version 17.7 or version 18.0 (version 17.7 is displayed at the top of the software update, for version 18.0 you have to scroll down a bit). We have already pointed out the risks of switching to a new major operating system version early.

Before installing a system update, you should create a full backup of your iPhone and iPad (via Mac or iCloud).