The iOS 18 update will be available for the iPhone 16 lineup in mid to late September 2024, likely between September 16-23[1][3]. Here are the key details:
iOS 18 Release Timing
- iOS 18 will likely be released in mid-September, based on the timing of previous major iOS releases which have fallen between September 12-20 in recent years[3].
- If Apple holds its iPhone 16 event between September 9-17, we could see iOS 18 officially launch between September 16-23[3].
iOS 18.1 Release
- However, some of the most advanced AI features powered by "Apple Intelligence" may not be available until an iOS 18.1 update in late October[1][2].
- iOS 18.1 will likely be released in late October, based on the timing of previous similar updates which have launched around October 20-25 in recent years[2].
So in summary, while the iPhone 16 will ship with iOS 18 in September, users may need to wait until the iOS 18.1 update in October to access the full suite of AI capabilities. The iOS 18 public beta is expected to launch in mid to late July, allowing early testing before the final release[3].
Citations:[1] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/ios-18-release-date-when-iphone-getting-update/
[2] https://www.macrumors.com/2024/08/09/ios-18-vs-ios-18-1/
[3] https://9to5mac.com/2024/07/22/ios-18-release-date/
[4] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/ios-18-update-timing/
[5] https://www.techradar.com/phones/ios/ios-18