Apple's iOS 12: September 17 release brings many new features
iPhone
Apple on Wednesday announced iOS 12 will be released for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch users on Sept. 17. The announcement came before Apple announced a trio of new iPhones: The iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.
The update, first announced in June, focuses on performance improvements, particularly for older iOS devices. Other notable features in iOS 12 include grouped notifications, changes to Do Not Disturb, and the ability for users to program Siri to carry out a series of tasks.
Also: iOS 12: Release date, new features, and hidden features CNET
Using a new Shortcuts app in iOS 12, users can link a series of tasks such as lock the front door, turn on a lamp, begin a playlist, and send a message to a loved one with a single Siri command when leaving for work, for example. And, for the first time, third-party apps can integrate with Siri through Shortcuts for tasks like ordering a cup of coffee on your commute.
Starting in iOS 12, notifications are now grouped based on the app, instead of in a never-ending chronological stream. Apple also added the ability to change whether or not an app's notifications show on the lock screen, or at all, directly from an alert.
Also: 14 features in iOS 12 you need to know about
Screen Time is also making its debut with iOS 12. The feature aims to bring attention to how much time users are spending on a particular device -- or a series of devices. Screen Time also doubles as a means for parental controls to limit which apps a child can access, and when the device can be used overall.
Also: All the new iOS 12 features you can expect TechRepublic
FaceTime was originally supposed to receive its biggest update ever, adding the ability for up to 32 people to video chat at the same time. However, during beta testing, Apple removed the feature and stated group FaceTime calls would eventually launch in a future iOS 12 update.
Another improvement coming in iOS 12 is to the Messages app is Memoji. Similar to Animoji, Memoji are limited to the iPhone X, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. Instead of lions or other animated objects, users can create a life-like cartoon character of him or herself. Users can then record videos or take photos using the Memoji, and send it via the Messages app.
iOS 12 is a free update, which should begin showing up on Sept. 17.
iPhone 2018 first look: Apple's launch event scene by scene (pictures)
PREVIOUS AND RELATED COVERAGE:
How to watch Apple's September 12 iPhone event
Not invited to Apple's September 12 iPhone unveiling? Here's how you can grab a front-row seat (yes, even Windows users are invited!).
Want a new iPhone or Android smartphone? Here's how to sell or trade
The new Samsung Galaxy Note 9 was just announced and we expect three new iPhones and two Google Pixel phones to launch soon. Now is the time to consider selling your current one before market prices drop or plan to participate in a trade-in program.
he major smartphone launch season is upon us and one of the first out of the gates is the Samsung Galaxy Note 9, immediately taking over the top spot in our list of best smartphones.
Best smartphones for 2018 CNET
The mostly excellent Galaxy S9's new features aren't quite as good as we'd like, but you'll probably want to buy one anyway.
Best smartphones of 2018 for tech experts TechRepublic
Looking to get a new smartphone? Here are 12 devices with the best features out now.
RELATED STORIES:
- How to watch Apple's 2018 iPhone event on September 12
- Apple's iPhone XS: 9 things you need to know before the keynote
- iPhone XS: One thumb up, one thumb down
- The big yawn: These new iPhones will be so boring, I can't wait
- iPhones, iPads, MacBooks: What new hardware will Apple unveil?
- iPhone hope and dread: In its game of phones, what features will Apple kill next?
- Why do people want a new iPhone? This research gives a fascinating clue
- iPhone XS event: Five things to watch for that are not phones
- How Apple Watch saved my life
- iOS 12: Release date, new features, and hidden features CNET
- iPhone XS: A cheat sheet for professionals TechRepublic
MORE FROM THE IPHONE XS EVENT:
- iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR tech specs
- Apple's iPhone XS Max price tops out at $1,449 -- and 8 other keynote takeaways
- One less thing: No new Macs
- iPhone XR? What kind of name is that?
- Apple iPhone XS event: By the numbers
- Apple details new immersive AR experiences coming in ARKit 2
- iPhone XS: I'm definitely buying Apple's new phone and here's why
- iPhone XS: Here's the one reason I won't buy Apple's new phone
- Apple Watch Series 4 launches, doubles down on digital health and wellness