This week, Apple introduced iOS 18, the next-generation operating system for the iPhone. The standout feature of iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, an integrated layer of artificial intelligence. It promises to enable generative image capabilities and assist in drafting emails more effectively.
Alongside Apple Intelligence, iOS 18 brings a host of exciting updates to the iPhone. These include a significantly customizable home screen, a redesigned Control Center, enhancements to Messages, a new Passwords app, and various other improvements.
But for many, the burning question is when they can get their hands on the software. Here’s a breakdown:
iOS 18 DEVELOPER BETA — AVAILABLE NOW Registered iOS developers can download the iOS 18 developer beta immediately. Simply register as a developer on developer.apple.com and pay the annual $99 fee to gain access.
However, a word of caution: Developer betas are known for their bugs and issues since they are still in the testing phase. These bugs can sometimes be severe enough to cause data loss or even render your iPhone unusable. This makes developer betas risky for general users who may not be familiar with these potential pitfalls.
iOS 18 PUBLIC BETA — AVAILABLE IN JULY For non-developers eager to try out iOS 18, the public beta will be available starting in July. The iOS 18 public beta offers a chance for curious users to explore the software ahead of its official release.
Public betas typically have fewer critical bugs compared to developer betas, making them safer for general consumers. However, they may still have some issues and incomplete features.
The iOS 18 public beta is free to download. To participate, you’ll need to register on beta.apple.com.
While Apple has not specified an exact date, the public beta is likely to launch early in July rather than later.
iOS 18 GENERAL RELEASE — AVAILABLE IN SEPTEMBER If you prefer to avoid beta versions, you can wait for the general release of iOS 18, expected in September. This release marks when Apple officially makes iOS 18 available to users worldwide.
Traditionally, Apple releases a new iOS version each September, and iOS 18 is expected to follow this pattern.