Apple took the wraps off iOS 18 at WWDC 2024. It is the next major update to iOS, the software that drives the iPhone. In case you haven’t heard, iOS 18 might just be the biggest—most ambitious—iOS update in Apple history with a whole bunch of features designed to change the way you use your iPhone forever. And it’s available right now ready to be downloaded and installed on supported Apple iPhones.
Before we dive into how to download and install it, you must know that, the iOS 18 version that is available today is meant specifically for developers to test their apps. It’s an early beta release and ideally, the general public should not use it. But, they can, provided they are open to the risks. You see an early beta release like this is prone to bugs and so, you might encounter issues at any moment. You should refrain from putting it on your primary device. And even then, you should follow proper protocol which includes taking thorough backups for when things go wrong.
Since iOS 17, Apple has made it easier for regular folk—those who are not developers—to sign up for these beta releases. Previously, you had to shell out USD 100 for access to the developer beta but not anymore. All you need now is an Apple ID, one that you’ll need to register, in order to get the update. If you have already signed up, there’s a good chance the update will be waiting for you inside the settings app ready to be installed provided you have a supported iPhone.
iOS 18: All the iPhones that support it — full list
The following iPhones are eligible to receive the iOS 18 update—iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone SE (2nd generation or later).
How to download, install iOS 18 on a supported iPhone:
- Register your Apple ID at developer.apple.com or beta.apple.com.
- Open the settings app. Then tap on General > Software update.
- Look for iOS Developer beta in beta updates section and select update now. The iOS 18 Developer beta weighs 7.11 GB.
- Once downloaded, tap on install. Your iPhone will restart and voila— iOS 18 is ready to go.
- Do know that, right off the gate, you’ll not notice any big changes. The Control Centre is where we looked first and spotted the first big changes. There’s more, but we won’t spoil it for you. Go check out on your own when you can. Also, the Apple Intelligence features aren’t available right away. They’re coming later this fall, aka in September.
For all the lowdown on iOS 18 including top specs and features, be sure to check out our full coverage report here.
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