Step-by-Step Guide to Installing iOS 18 Today

The highly anticipated iOS 18 is finally available for all iPhone users! On September 16, 2024, Apple officially released the final version of iOS 18, introducing a plethora of exciting new features such as an enhanced Control Center, customizable Home Screens, and much more. Whether you’re currently using iOS 17 or have been testing the iOS 18 beta, it’s time to upgrade to the official version to enjoy the latest enhancements. Updating your iPhone is generally simple, but it can be slightly tricky for beginners or beta testers. Let’s get started!

Note:
If your iPhone is operating on iOS 18.1 beta, you will not receive the stable iOS 18 update even if you disable Beta Updates in Settings. The only method to access iOS 18 is to first downgrade to the stable iOS 17 version, then check for the iOS 18 updates.

How to Upgrade to iOS 18 from iOS 17

iOS 18 Can Still Display Time When iPhone Is Completely Out of Battery

Fortunately, downloading and installing iOS 18 on your iPhone if you’re using iOS 17 is a straightforward process. Before proceeding, we highly recommend backing up your iPhone. Although it’s uncommon, issues may arise during the update process. For your peace of mind, ensure all essential data is backed up.

After creating a backup, follow these steps to install iOS 18:

To install iOS 18 smoothly, ensure your iPhone has at least 50% battery and is connected to a reliable internet connection.

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and select General.
Tap on the Software Update section.
Let your iPhone search for available updates. You should see a notification for the iOS 18 update.
Tap on the Download and Install button to start the process.
Please wait while your iPhone downloads the iOS 18 update.
Once downloading is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.

If you are currently running the iOS 18 beta, you will need to downgrade to the stable version of iOS 18.

iOS 18 Update Size and Download Time

The size of the iOS 18 update can vary slightly depending on the iPhone model. If you are upgrading from iOS 17.6.1 to iOS 18, the update size is approximately 3.5GB. Keep in mind that if you are upgrading from an earlier iOS version, the update size will be larger, subsequently taking more time.

The download time for the iOS 18 update depends on your internet speed. With a 100 Mbps connection, I managed to download the iOS 18 update in just 5 minutes. After downloading, expect the installation of iOS 18 to take around 10-15 minutes or longer.

iOS 18 Compatible iPhones

If you’re unsure whether your iPhone supports iOS 18, we have the information you need. Importantly, Apple has not discontinued support for any models with this latest version. All iPhones that are compatible with iOS 17 are also compatible with iOS 18. So if you’re currently running iOS 17, upgrading to iOS 18 should be seamless.

Here’s the list of devices that support iOS 18:

iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd gen)
iPhone 12, 12 mini
iPhone 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13, 13 mini
iPhone 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
iPhone SE (3rd gen)
iPhone 14, 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
iPhone 15, 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max

The iPhone 16 lineup comes pre-installed with iOS 18.

What’s New in iOS 18

The new iOS 18 update brings a multitude of features, including a customizable Lock Screen, personalized Home Screen options, the capability to lock and hide individual apps, a new Password app, Vehicle Motion cues, and more. There are also several hidden features that enhance the overall user experience. Moreover, users with compatible Apple Intelligence devices will gain access to Writing Tools, call recording, and an upgraded Siri experience. In upcoming months, additional features like Genmoji, ChatGPT integration, Image Playground, and more will be added.

Since Apple’s announcement of iOS 18 at WWDC 2024, our team at Beebom has extensively tested both developer and public betas. We’ve explored numerous new features, significant changes, and customization options that affirm the value of upgrading to iOS 18.

What are your thoughts on the new features in iOS 18? Are you eager to install iOS 18 now? We’d love to hear your feedback in the comments below.

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