Unveiling the New iOS Features of 2024 – Complete Guide

With just a few days remaining in 2024, anticipation is building for the numerous features expected in both iOS 17 and iOS 18. We’re thrilled about the exciting new iOS features set to launch this year.

In this article, we’ll explore the innovative iOS features that will be arriving in 2024. Among the anticipated updates are RCS support in the Messages app, generative AI integration for Siri, AirPlay compatibility with hotel TVs, next-generation CarPlay enhancements, collaborative Apple Music playlists, and much more.

Stolen Device Protection

According to The Wall Street Journal, many thieves often overhear iPhone owners’ passwords in public places like bars before attempting to steal their devices. Once they obtain the password, they can gain complete control over the iPhone, allowing them to change the Apple ID password, turn off Find My iPhone, and access sensitive personal data stored in the iCloud Keychain.

To combat this issue, Apple is introducing Stolen Device Protection, an additional security measure designed to safeguard your iPhone and passcode in case it is stolen.

When this feature is enabled, specific actions will require Face ID or Touch ID authentication and will no longer have a passcode fallback option. These actions include:

• Accessing saved passkeys or passwords in iCloud Keychain
• Retrieving the virtual number of an existing Apple Card or applying for a new one
• Disabling Lost Mode
• Deleting all settings and content
• Using the Wallet app for Apple Cash and Apple Card Savings transactions
• Using payment methods stored in Safari
• Setting up a new device with your iPhone

Additionally, the feature introduces a one-hour security delay for compassionate actions, such as changing the Apple ID password linked to your device. Users will need to authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID, wait an hour, and authenticate again to complete these actions. However, Apple notes that there is no delay for devices located in familiar settings, like home or office.

Actions subject to the one-hour security delay requiring Face ID or Touch ID authentication include:

• Changing your Apple ID password
• Adjusting password recovery settings (like Recovery Key)
• Updating Recovery Contact, Trusted Phone Number, or Trusted Device
• Changing your iPhone passcode
• Adding or removing Touch ID / Face ID
• Disabling Find My iPhone

Any iPhone running iOS 17 or later can opt-in to receive Stolen Device Protection, which can be found in the Settings app under Face ID & Passcode. iPhone users can preview this feature by updating to the iOS 17.3 beta. After the general release of iOS 17.3, Apple plans to provide more details about this significant security enhancement.

Playlists for Collaboration on Apple Music

The recently launched Collaborative Playlists feature enables multiple users to add, move, or delete songs within a shared playlist. Users can also enhance their experience by using animated emoji reactions to annotate tracks on the playlist.

Although beta testing has concluded, iOS 17.2 was initially withdrawn as the launching platform for this feature. According to Apple’s website, Collaborative Playlists will return in 2024, marking a significant update in iOS 17.3.

AirPlay on Hotel Room TVs

After the release of iOS 17.2, Apple updated its website to announce that AirPlay for hotel room TVs will not be available until 2024. Initially, Apple indicated that this feature would be “coming later this year,” but it has since been revised to say it will be included in an update in 2024.

While the company has not provided a specific release date for this feature, it is expected to launch sometime in the first half of 2024 as part of an iOS 17 update.

With this feature, iPhone users will be able to wirelessly stream music, videos, and photos from their devices to hotel room TVs by scanning a QR code displayed on the TV to establish an AirPlay connection.

In contrast, Google already offers similar functionality on select hotel TVs, allowing guests to stream media via Chromecast from their smartphones.

According to a June announcement from Apple, IHG Hotels & Resorts, the parent company of Holiday Inn, was one of the first hotel chains to adopt this feature.

App Sideloading in EU

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is preparing to enable app sideloading on the iPhone to comply with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act. This change will allow users to install applications from sources outside of Apple’s App Store, initially limited to European Union countries.

Gurman has also shared insights regarding the upcoming iOS 17 update, which is expected to be released by mid-2024 and will facilitate app sideloading within the EU.

Next-Generation CarPlay

Apple CarPlay has fulfilled its commitment to unveil the first vehicles equipped with its next-generation CarPlay system before the end of 2023, with just days to spare. Recently, Aston Martin and Porsche showcased previews of the upcoming CarPlay experience in their cars.

While a specific release date has yet to be confirmed, Aston Martin plans to launch its first vehicles featuring next-generation CarPlay in 2024. However, details still need to be made available. Apple introduced this enhanced CarPlay experience in June 2022, promising several improvements, including widgets, compatibility with multiple dashboard displays, a dedicated FM radio app, and better integration with the instrument cluster and climate controls.

The new interface can be customized to reflect the unique design of each car model and the brand identity of the manufacturer. When next-generation CarPlay was first announced, Apple revealed that several automakers, including Acura, Audi, Ford, Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Porsche, Renault, and Volvo, were committed to the platform. Since then, we can only confirm the addition of Aston Martin to this list.

Roadside Assistance via Satellite Outside U.S.

Starting with iOS 17, every iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 model includes the Roadside Assistance satellite feature. This allows users to connect with AAA for automotive assistance, even when they are outside the range of cellular or Wi-Fi networks in the United States.

Apple has indicated that this feature will initially be available in the U.S., with plans to expand to a few other countries in 2024.

RCS Support

Apple announced that the iPhone’s Messages app would support the cross-platform messaging standard RCS “later next year,” suggesting that this feature will likely be included in iOS 18.

The addition of RCS support is expected to enhance the messaging experience between iPhones and Android devices in several key ways:

• Higher-resolution photos and videos
• Audio messages
• Typing indicators
• Read receipts
• Wi-Fi messaging between iPhones and Android devices
• Improved group chat functionality, including the option for iPhone users to leave conversations involving Android users
• Enhanced encryption compared to traditional SMS

Many of these features are already present in third-party messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram and can currently be used in iMessage conversations with blue bubbles. With the introduction of RCS support, green bubbles in the Messages app will also gain access to additional functionalities.

Siri is getting smarter.

Mark Gurman from Bloomberg reports that iOS 18 is set to introduce a generative AI system designed to improve how Siri and the Messages app respond to questions and auto-complete sentences. He also noted that Apple is exploring generative AI capabilities for additional applications on its platforms, including Xcode, Pages, Keynote, and Apple Music.

According to The Information, Apple plans to integrate the Shortcuts app more closely with Siri by incorporating large language models, enabling users to automate more complex tasks. This feature is expected to be part of next year’s iPhone software update, likely in iOS 18.

The release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT last year marked a pivotal moment in the chatbot landscape. It allowed for versatile responses to a wide range of inquiries and boosted the popularity of generative AI. Following this, Google and Microsoft launched similar chatbots earlier this year, highlighting a growing interest among various companies in this field. These chatbots, trained on extensive language models, can respond in a manner that closely resembles human conversation.

Key New Features in iOS 2024

Subheading 1.1: RCS Support in Messages

RCS (Rich Communication Services) support in Apple’s Messages app is set to revolutionize the way iPhone users communicate with Android users. Unlike traditional SMS, RCS enables a richer messaging experience that includes:

• High-Resolution Media Sharing: Users will be able to send and receive high-quality photos and videos without the usual compression, making shared memories even more vibrant and clear.
• Enhanced Messaging Features: With RCS, users will enjoy real-time typing indicators, read receipts, and improved group chat functionality. This means you can see when someone is typing and whether they’ve read your message, similar to features found in popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram.
• Wi-Fi and Data Messaging: RCS supports messaging over Wi-Fi, ensuring that conversations can continue even when cellular coverage is poor. This is particularly beneficial for users traveling or in remote areas.
• Improved Security and Encryption: Compared to standard SMS, RCS offers better encryption, providing a more secure messaging experience.

Subheading 1.2: Generative AI Integration

Apple is introducing generative AI capabilities in iOS 18, aimed at significantly improving the functionality of Siri and the Messages app. Key improvements include:

• Enhanced Interaction with Siri: With generative AI, Siri will better understand context and nuances in user requests, enabling more natural and fluid conversations. This means users can expect more relevant answers and a more personalized experience when interacting with Siri.
• Intelligent Auto-Completion: The Messages app will leverage AI to suggest auto-completion for sentences, making typing faster and more efficient. Users will receive contextual suggestions that align with the ongoing conversation, allowing for quicker and smoother communication.
• Advanced Learning Capabilities: Siri will learn from user interactions over time, adapting its responses and suggestions based on individual preferences and usage patterns. This personalized touch will enhance user satisfaction and make Siri an indispensable tool for daily tasks.
• Broader Application Across Apple Platforms: Beyond just messaging, generative AI features are expected to be integrated into other apps like Xcode, Pages, and Keynote, streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity.

Subheading 1.3: Enhanced CarPlay Experience

The next-generation CarPlay experience is set to transform how users interact with their vehicles. Here’s what to expect in the upcoming release:

• Multi-Display Compatibility: The new CarPlay will support multiple dashboard displays, allowing for a more customized and cohesive user interface that fits seamlessly into various car models. This means users can enjoy a tailored experience that maximizes the available screen space in their vehicles.
• Widgets for Quick Access: Users can expect a widget system that provides at-a-glance information, such as navigation, music controls, and calendar events, all integrated into the CarPlay interface. This will enhance convenience and minimize distractions while driving.
• Deeper Integration with Vehicle Systems: The next-generation CarPlay will offer enhanced integration with a car’s instrument cluster and climate controls, allowing users to control essential functions directly from their CarPlay interface. This functionality enables drivers to adjust their settings without needing to switch back and forth between apps.
• Brand Customization: Car manufacturers will be able to customize the CarPlay experience to reflect their brand identity. This customization will ensure that each car’s interface aligns with its unique design and features, providing a more cohesive user experience.
• New Vehicle Partnerships: Major automakers, including Aston Martin and Porsche, have already announced their commitment to incorporating the next-generation CarPlay into their upcoming models, paving the way for widespread adoption.

Improved User Experience

Subheading 2.1: Customizable User Interface

The new iOS interface in 2024 brings a wealth of customizable options that allow users to tailor their experience according to their preferences. Key features include:

• Home Screen Customization: Users can now rearrange app icons, adjust widget sizes, and create custom layouts, enabling a personalized home screen that reflects individual styles and priorities. The new drag-and-drop functionality makes it easy to organize apps and widgets intuitively.
• Dynamic Themes and Color Schemes: iOS 2024 introduces a variety of dynamic themes and color options, allowing users to choose visual aesthetics that suit their mood or environment. Users can select light or dark modes or even schedule theme changes based on the time of day.
• Personalized Widgets: With enhanced widget functionality, users can customize the information displayed on their home screen. Options include adjusting the size of widgets, selecting specific data to showcase, and even creating stacks of widgets for quick access to important updates.
• Focus Modes Enhancements: Building on the Focus Modes introduced in previous iOS versions, users can now create tailored modes that automatically adjust app and notification settings based on their activities, such as work, relaxation, or exercise.

Subheading 2.2: Advanced Privacy Features

iOS 2024 takes privacy to the next level with a range of advanced features designed to protect user data and enhance security. Key measures include:

• Stolen Device Protection: This groundbreaking feature provides users with an added layer of security in the event their device is stolen. It requires Face ID or Touch ID authentication for sensitive actions, such as disabling Lost Mode or accessing payment methods. This means that even if someone gains access to your device, they will face significant barriers in altering your settings or using your data.
• App Privacy Reports: Users will receive detailed reports on how apps access their data, including information about what data is being collected, how it’s used, and whether it’s shared with third parties. This transparency allows users to make informed decisions about the apps they choose to use.
• Enhanced Location Privacy: iOS 2024 offers improved location tracking controls, allowing users to manage which apps can access their location and how frequently. Users can opt for one-time access or restrict location access entirely, giving them more control over their privacy.
• Improved Safari Privacy Features: The latest updates to Safari include enhanced tracking prevention, which blocks third-party cookies and minimizes cross-site tracking. Additionally, users can now browse with increased anonymity through improved Private Browsing modes.

Subheading 2.3: Streamlined App Functionality

In iOS 2024, Apple has made significant strides in improving app performance and usability, resulting in a smoother and more efficient user experience. Notable enhancements include:

• Faster App Launch Times: Applications have been optimized for quicker loading, allowing users to access their favorite apps almost instantly. This improvement minimizes waiting times and enhances overall productivity.
• Intuitive App Navigation: The app user interface has been refined for more straightforward navigation. Everyday tasks are streamlined, with more explicit icons and user-friendly layouts that facilitate quick access to essential functions.
• Enhanced Multitasking Features: Users can now easily switch between apps with improved multitasking capabilities. The split-screen view has been upgraded, allowing for a more seamless experience when working across multiple applications simultaneously.
• Increased Compatibility with Third-Party Apps: Developers have been provided with new tools and APIs that enhance the integration of third-party applications within the iOS ecosystem. This means users can expect better performance from popular apps, including smoother interactions and reduced crashes.
• Customizable App Settings: Users can personalize app settings to better suit their workflows, such as adjusting notification preferences, choosing themes, and selecting default actions. This level of customization allows for a more tailored experience based on individual needs.

More Customization Than Ever

Users will enjoy exciting new options for customizing their Home Screen. They can arrange app icons and widgets in ways that beautifully complement their wallpaper or create the perfect layout on each page. They can choose how app icons and widgets are displayed—whether in light mode, dark mode, or with a colored tint. Additionally, users can opt for larger app icons to achieve a streamlined look.

The Control Center has also undergone a redesign, enhancing its flexibility. Users can organize powerful groups of controls—including favorites, media playback, Home controls, and connectivity options—into a new controls gallery featuring third-party app options, ensuring they are always just a swipe away. For the first time, users can access their preferred controls directly from the Action button and customize the controls on the Lock Screen, even having the option to remove them entirely if desired.

Frequently Asked Question

What are the key new features of iOS 18?

iOS 18 introduces several exciting features, including RCS support in the Messages app, generative AI integration for enhanced Siri functionality, a customizable Home Screen layout, advanced privacy features like Stolen Device Protection, and an improved CarPlay experience with more compatible vehicles.

How will RCS support improve messaging for iPhone users?

RCS support will enhance messaging between iPhone and Android users by enabling higher-resolution photos and videos, audio messages, typing indicators, read receipts, Wi-Fi messaging, and improved group chat functionality, providing a more seamless messaging experience.

What is the generative AI integration in iOS 18?

The generative AI integration in iOS 18 aims to improve how Siri and the Messages app handle user queries and auto-complete sentences. This feature will enable more brilliant, more intuitive interactions, making it easier for users to get the information they need quickly.

How can I customize my Home Screen in iOS 18?

In iOS 18, users can customize their Home Screen by arranging app icons and widgets around their wallpaper. They can choose the display style of app icons and widgets (light, dark, or tinted) and make icons larger for a more streamlined appearance.

What changes have been made to the Control Center in iOS 18?

The Control Center has been redesigned for greater flexibility. It allows users to organize groups of controls, such as favorites, media playback, and Home controls. Users can also access their favorite controls from the Action button and customize the controls displayed on the Lock Screen.

What is the Stolen Device Protection feature?

The Stolen Device Protection feature adds an extra layer of security for iPhones. If your device is stolen, this feature requires Face ID or Touch ID authentication for sensitive actions, preventing unauthorized access to personal information even if someone has your passcode.

Will iOS 18 be compatible with all iPhone models?

iOS 18 will be compatible with iPhone models that support the latest software updates. Apple will provide specific compatibility details upon its official release.

How does the enhanced CarPlay experience work?

The next-generation CarPlay experience allows for deeper integration with vehicle systems, offering customizable interfaces, multi-display support, and dedicated apps for functions like climate control and navigation. More car manufacturers are expected to support this feature in 2024.

How do I enable RCS support on my iPhone?

RCS support will be enabled in the Messages app settings once the feature is officially rolled out with iOS 18. Users will need to ensure that their device is updated to the latest software version to access this functionality.

When will iOS 18 be officially released?

Apple has announced that iOS 18 is expected to be released in mid-2024. Specific release dates will be shared during Apple’s events or announcements leading up to the launch.

Conclusion

The unveiling of iOS 18 in 2024 promises to redefine the user experience for iPhone owners with a host of innovative features designed to enhance functionality, security, and customization. With the introduction of RCS support, users can expect a more seamless messaging experience between iPhone and Android devices. At the same time, generative AI integration will significantly improve interactions with Siri and the Messages app.

The customizable Home Screen allows for personalized layouts and streamlined aesthetics, ensuring that users can tailor their devices to suit their preferences. Enhanced privacy measures, such as the Stolen Device Protection feature, provide an additional layer of security, safeguarding personal information even in challenging situations. Moreover, the revamped CarPlay experience will integrate more deeply with vehicles, making it easier than ever to access essential functions on the go.