iOS 18 Feature Compatibility Guide for your iPhone

Apple's latest mobile operating system, iOS 18, brings a wealth of new features to iPhone users. However, the availability of these features varies depending on the iPhone model you own. This guide breaks down which iOS 18 features require specific iPhone models, helping you understand what's available for your device or what you might gain by upgrading.

Feature compatibility at a glance

Before getting into the details, here's a quick reference table summarizing the feature compatibility across iPhone models:

Breaking down the features

The iPhone 15 Pro and later models are at the forefront of iOS 18's most advanced capabilities. These devices boast Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI-powered features integrated throughout the system. They also introduce the Clean Up tool in the Photos app, allowing users to remove unwanted elements from images with ease. Perhaps most impressively, these models offer phone call transcription, providing real-time text versions of live phone calls and FaceTime audio calls.

For those with iPhone 14 and later, iOS 18 brings the ability to send messages via satellite. This groundbreaking feature ensures you can stay connected even when you're off the grid, without cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. It's a game-changer for adventurers and those who frequently find themselves in remote areas.

iPhone 12 users and above aren't left out of the excitement. These models introduce Eye Tracking, a revolutionary feature that allows users to navigate their iPhone using just their eyes. It's a significant leap forward in accessibility and hands-free control. Music lovers will appreciate the new Music Haptics feature, which lets you feel the rhythm of songs through the iPhone's Taptic Engine, adding a new dimension to the listening experience. Additionally, these models support audio recording transcription in the Notes app, making it easier than ever to convert spoken words into text.

For iPhone 11 and later (excluding the iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd generation), iOS 18 introduces hands-free unlock with home keys. This convenient feature allows you to unlock your door simply by approaching it, without needing to take your iPhone out of your pocket or bag.

Even older models like the iPhone XS and XR get some love in iOS 18. These devices can now use the Continuity Camera feature with Apple TV 4K (2nd generation and later), expanding the ways you can integrate your iPhone into your home entertainment setup.

AirPods enhancements

iOS 18 doesn't just bring improvements to iPhones; it also enhances the AirPods experience. Users of AirPods (3rd generation), AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max can enjoy Personalized Spatial Audio for gaming, creating a more immersive audio environment. For those with AirPods Pro (2nd generation and later), iOS 18 offers reduced gaming audio latency and improved in-game voice quality, taking mobile gaming audio to the next level.

Additional considerations

While many features in iOS 18 are tied to specific iPhone models, some are dependent on other factors. SharePlay features, for instance, require compatible devices and apps. Apple TV+ features like InSight necessitate an active subscription. It's also worth noting that some features may have regional limitations or language support restrictions. For example, certain Maps features like topographic maps may only be available in specific geographic regions.

iOS 18 represents a significant step forward in iPhone functionality, with the most cutting-edge features reserved for the latest models, particularly the iPhone 15 Pro and later. However, users of older iPhone models will still find plenty to appreciate in this update. Whether you're considering an upgrade or simply want to know what new features await you in iOS 18, this guide should help you navigate the landscape of feature compatibility.

Remember to keep your iPhone updated to the latest version of iOS 18 to ensure you have access to all available features for your device model.