- iOS 18.1 includes improvements to Control Center, with new shortcuts and customizable options.
- Apple Intelligence arrives with advanced features IA exclusive to certain devices.
- The call recording feature and advanced writing tools are two of the big new features.
- NFC open to third parties and camera improvements for newer models.
Apple has officially released the update iOS 18.1 for iPhone, bringing with it a series of important improvements and new features. This version marks the beginning of a new era with Apple Intelligence, its own system of Artificial Intelligence which is starting to roll out on some devices. Although it is currently only available in English and for a select group of users in the United States, it is expected to arrive in Europe in the coming months.
iOS 18.1 brings a long list of new features to the iPhone, with greater customization in the Control center, new tools for the call recording and significant improvements to common applications such as Mail or Photos. In addition, the option to open the NFC Third-party software will allow other apps can take advantage of this technology, a change that has been highly requested by iPhone users.
Top new features of iOS 18.1
The first big change you notice in iOS 18.1 is the redesign of the Control center. Now, it is more customizable than ever, allowing you to add shortcuts for managing Wi-Fi VPN, AirDrop and other connections. Apple has also added the ability to reset it to its default settings from the settings. This new feature can also be controlled through the Shortcuts app, thus offering greater flexibility.
Improvements have also been added to the camera, including quick access to the TrueDepth front camera on iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, and a new Spatial Capture feature to create videos that take advantage of depth and space, aimed at the latest iPhone modelsThis innovation improves image quality and expands the possibilities for content creators who use their iPhone to record 4K videos.
Apple Intelligence arrives
La Apple artificial intelligence, known as Apple Intelligence, is one of the big new features of iOS 18.1. At the moment, this feature is only available for iOS devices. iPhone 15 Pro and higher, as well as on Macs and iPads with M chips. This technology brings new advanced features such as writing tools, which allow you to edit, summarize, and correct texts using AI. This feature is integrated into applications such as Mail and Notes, and is even open to third-party apps.
In addition, a new version of Siri with an updated design that wraps around the screen and allows for more natural and fluid interactions. Siri can now maintain the context of the conversation, improving the user experience by being able to refer to previous interactions or items already requested without having to repeat commands.
With regards to app Photos, customization goes to the next level with the feature Clean up, which removes unwanted objects from images with a simple tap. This option, along with the ability to create videos from voice commands that describe the story you want to tell, are some of the most notable advances in Apple Intelligence.
More improvements and new features
Among the new features of iOS 18.1 also stands out the opening of the NFC to third-party apps. This enhancement will allow other developers to make broader use of this chip, something that was previously limited to just the Wallet app. The integration of TikTok y Apple Music, making it easy to share songs directly to the popular social network.
With regards to Mail app, is now able to generate automatic summaries long messages and prioritize urgent emails, which is especially useful for managing your inbox more efficiently. These summaries help you save time and avoid missing the most important things.
How to update to iOS 18.1?
Updating to iOS 18.1 is incredibly easy. Just head over to the Settings> General> Software update on your iPhone. Remember that this update is available for all models that are already compatible with iOS 18, that is, from the iPhone XS onwards. In addition, you can get it through your Mac o PC connecting your iPhone using a cable.
iOS 18.1 Apple Intelligence has arrived with visible improvements and cutting-edge AI features that transform the iPhone user experience. While Apple Intelligence is not yet available in all countries or languages, the company has already confirmed its expansion in spring 2025. Stay tuned for more updates!
I'm Alberto Navarro and I'm passionate about everything related to technology, from cutting-edge gadgets to software and video games of all kinds. My interest in digital began with video games and continued in the world of digital marketing. I have been writing about the digital world on different platforms since 2019, sharing the latest news in the sector. I also try to write in an original way so that you can stay up to date while having fun.
I studied Sociology at university and completed my studies with a Master's in Digital Marketing. So if you have any questions, I'll share with you all my experience in the world of digital marketing, technology and video games.