Leaked iOS 18.1 Release Date: This Major Update Brings More Than Just Apple Intelligence
The next big iOS update is just around the corner, and iPhone users have a lot to be excited about. After the launch of iOS 18 in mid-September, followed by a bug-fixing iOS 18.0.1 update last week, we’re now awaiting iOS 18.1. This version has been in beta since the summer and is expected to roll out as a stable update later this month.
According to Mark Gurman, a renowned Bloomberg leaker, iOS 18.1 will officially launch on Monday, October 28. He shared this in his latest newsletter, hinting at when iPhone users will get to enjoy the latest features beyond the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence, which will debut first in the U.S.
What to Expect from iOS 18.1 on October 28
Although there may be one or two more beta releases before iOS 18.1 goes live, we already have a good idea of the new features set to arrive with this update:
1. Apple Intelligence
The first phase of Apple Intelligence will launch with iOS 18.1, bringing features like a notification summary, advanced information searches with Siri, and a writing assistant. Available only in U.S. English.
2. Object and People Removal in Photos
The highly anticipated "Magic Eraser" feature, which allows users to quickly remove unwanted objects and people from their photos, is coming to iPhones. This feature is similar to Google's version and will be integrated into Apple Intelligence.
3. New Control Center Options
iOS 18.1 will introduce long-awaited changes to the Control Center, including the ability to separate Wi-Fi and VPN controls into two distinct icons. Additionally, users will be able to reset the Control Center to its factory settings.
4. Call Recording
One of the most exciting new features of iOS 18 is call recording, and it’s finally arriving with iOS 18.1. This feature will be compatible with iPhone models from the XS and XR onward. However, only users with iPhone 12 models or later will have the added ability to transcribe calls directly into the Notes app.
5. New iPhone 16 Button Options
For iPhone 16 users, the camera control button will now also allow you to switch between front and rear cameras without needing to touch the screen.
6. Drag and Drop Between iPhone and Mac
With the new iPhone mirroring app from macOS Sequoia, iPhone users will be able to control their devices from their Macs. With iOS 18.1 and macOS 15.1, you’ll also be able to transfer files between your iPhone and Mac by simply dragging and dropping with the mouse.
Mark Your Calendar for October 28
While Apple has yet to officially confirm the release date of iOS 18.1, Gurman’s report suggests it will roll out on October 28. Looking at Apple’s history with previous updates like iOS 17.1 and iOS 16.1, which launched around the same time in October, it’s likely that this date is accurate.