Apple recently confirmed the dates for its much-anticipated WWDC 2024 event. The event will be held from June 10 to 14, and Apple is expected to make some exciting announcements. One of the major announcements expected at WWDC is the first look at the new operating system update for iPhones, iOS. 18, according to speculation and leaks, iOS 18 will be the biggest update to the iPhone operating system that Apple has ever released, and it will reportedly include the integration of artificial intelligence features and support for RCS messaging, according to indiatoday.
In addition to the expected features of iOS 18, a recent report from MacRumors indicates that Apple is planning to integrate topographic maps into the Apple Maps app for iOS 18, macOS 15, and VisionOS 2. Furthermore, iPhone users may soon enjoy the ability to create custom routes in Maps. Apple, enabling them to customize and preview their itineraries before embarking on their journeys.
Topographic maps
Apple initially introduced topographic maps into watchOS. Since their debut, these maps have become a vital tool for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring detailed trails, elevation lines, and landmarks, all of which are particularly useful for precise navigation during activities like hiking. Apple is also working on systematically expanding its reach across the United States.
However, new reports this year indicate the possibility of these maps extending to iOS, macOS, and VisionOS platforms, and analyst Nicolas Alvarez indicates in his report that the topographic mapping code was implemented last year, but it was only activated in watchOS 10, and remained inactive on the two iOS systems. and macOS at the time. However, recent code updates for iOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS 2 reveal that the feature is now active, and this also indicates increased availability of topographic maps with the upcoming iOS 18 upgrade, as reported by MacRumors.
Create a custom path
In addition to topographical maps, Apple is said to be ready to offer custom route creation with iOS 18. This feature will enable iPhone users to design their own specific routes for trips, providing an alternative to the routes suggested by Apple Maps. Currently, Apple Maps provides multiple options for the route to the destination. , but with iOS 18, users will have complete control over the finer details of their route.
Importantly, the expected improvements to Apple Maps, including topographic maps and personalized routes, are just a glimpse of the broader vision for iOS 18, and these updates go beyond the expected focus on personalization and AI features.
According to MacRumors, iOS 18 will, for the first time, allow users to freely arrange app icons on the home screen, and even create spaces between them. In addition, iOS 18 is set to adopt the Rich Communications Services (RCS) messaging standard and incorporate design elements from VisionOS.
Overall, according to reports, with the upcoming iPhone OS, Apple aims to enhance the flexibility of the home screen and offer a more user-centric design experience.
It is worth noting that the full set of iOS 18 features remains secret until Apple's official announcement at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. Along with iOS 18, Apple is also expected to reveal updates to iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, visionOS 2, and macOS, after... Revealing, beta versions of these OS updates are expected to be released in June, with a general release planned for the fall, likely to coincide with the launch of the iPhone 16 series.