Apple recently unveiled iOS 18, which has many new features designed to enhance the iPhone messaging experience. From the groundbreaking ability to send messages via satellite to the long-awaited support for Rich Communication Services (RCS), AI-generated “Genmojis,” and scheduled messaging, Apple’s latest update promises to keep users connected and expressive like never before.
Satellite messaging
One of the most groundbreaking features of iOS 18 is the ability to send messages via satellite. This innovative capability ensures that users can send texts, emojis, photos, and videos even in areas without Wi-Fi or cellular coverage. This feature, available exclusively on iPhone 14 models and later, marks a significant expansion of the emergency SOS via satellite introduced in 2022. Now, users can stay connected regardless of location, making it a perfect tool for hikers and adventurers who often find themselves off the grid.
Apple has confirmed that all satellite messages will be end-to-end encrypted, ensuring the highest level of privacy and security. However, the tech giant has yet to disclose whether there will be any charges associated with this feature for non-emergency use. The initial emergency SOS service was provided free for two years, hinting at potential future costs for broader satellite messaging services.
RCS support
In a move to keep pace with competitors, Apple has integrated Rich Communication Services (RCS) into iOS 18. This upgrade significantly improves messaging between iPhone and Android users, offering features like higher resolution photos and videos, larger file transfers, real-time typing indicators, read receipts, and improved group chats. This enhancement addresses long-standing issues with SMS/MMS, providing a more seamless and rich messaging experience across platforms.
Scheduled messages
Scheduled messages are another highly anticipated feature coming to iOS 18. Users can now prepare messages in advance and set them to be sent at a specified time, a functionality that will be invaluable for sending reminders and timed notifications.
Genmojis and text formatting
Apple’s foray into AI-driven personalization is evident with the introduction of Genmojis. These AI-generated emojis can be created by simply providing a description or selecting variables. They can be customized to resemble people from your photo gallery and used inline within messages, adding a fun and personal touch to your conversations.
Text formatting in Messages is also getting a significant boost. Users will now have the ability to bold, italicize, underline, and strikethrough text, alongside new special effects such as “shake,” “bloom,” and more. These enhancements are designed to make messaging more expressive and engaging.
Image Playground
The new Image Playground app is set to spark creativity by allowing users to generate AI-created images based on selected themes, costumes, accessories, and more. These images can be created in various styles like sketches or animations and shared directly within Messages, providing a unique way to enhance your visual communications.
Availability
These features will be made available in the fall with the public release of iOS 18 alongside iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, macOS Sequoia, and tvOS 18.
