The upcoming iOS 18 is poised to be the most significant advancement in iPhone's evolution yet with a new Safari browsing assistant being one of the key features.
New Delhi,UPDATED: Apr 11, 2024 19:29 IST
iPhone fans are eagerly awaiting the new OS update, iOS 18. Why? Well, the new iOS iteration is said to be the biggest ever software upgrade Apple is bringing for its iPhones with daily leaks continuing to fuel speculation about the new features. The latest buzz suggests Apple might introduce a dedicated Safari browsing assistant for iPhones with iOS 18, further amping up the excitement.
According to tipster Nicolás lvarez's recent discovery in Apple's backend code, iOS 18 may feature a new Safari browsing assistant. lvarez, in his recent post on X, reveals that "Coming in iOS 18: - 'Safari browsing assistant' - 'Encrypted visual search.' Both features seem to use the Private Relay infrastructure to send data to Apple (so that they don't know your IP?)." The presence of the new assistant was also verified by Aaron Perris from MacRumors, but more details on how the feature will work are not yet available.
Interestingly, the hint at the integration of a browsing assistant in Safari is in line with ongoing speculations about new generative AI features slated for release on the iPhone with iOS 18. If it's true, the AI assistance will be similar to the feature. It's worth noting that AI capabilities are already present in several, such as Microsoft Edge, which includes a Copilot feature powered by GPT-4 and Arc Search.
In addition, lvarez spotted a function named "Encrypted Visual Search" in the code, but its specifics are still unclear.
Apart from the rumoured AI assistant improvements, iOS 18 is expected to bring several significant updates. We can anticipate AI integration across various iOS applications.
For example, Apple Music might curate personalised playlists based on your listening habits, while stock apps like Mail and Notes could gain AI-powered features for improved functionality. Siri, once sluggish, is set for a substantial upgrade with the integration of large language models (LLMs). This will transform it into a comprehensive "ultimate virtual assistant" with improved conversational capabilities and deeper Shortcuts integration.
iPhone users might finally be able to ditch the limitations of iMessage and enjoy features like enhanced video quality and read receipts when messaging Android users through rumoured RCS support. iOS 18 might also grant you more control over the home screen just like an Android phone. Speculations suggest the ability to create blank spaces and customise icon arrangements for a truly personalised experience.
Apple might introduce "Adaptive Voice Shortcuts" and potentially allow adjustable font sizes across more apps with iOS 18. The AirPods Pro could even gain functionality similar to hearing aids. Apple Maps might become more competitive with features like custom route planning and potentially the addition of topographic maps for outdoor enthusiasts.
While Apple hasn't officially confirmed which iPhones will support iOS 18, rumours suggest a wide range of devices, including many models from 2018 and later, could be eligible. This could potentially include the iPhone XS and XR, although that remains uncertain.
It's important to note that all these features are speculative. We expect more information about these developments to emerge in the coming weeks leading up to WWDC 2024, which will be held from June 10 to 14.
Published By:
Divya Bhati
Published On:
Apr 11, 2024
English (US) ·