iOS users can rejoice as Apple has finally introduced a plethora of new features inspired by Android, providing a more seamless user experience. At the recent WWDC developer conference, Apple showcased numerous updates and enhancements to iOS and other operating systems, aligning itself more closely with competing platforms. The introduction of ‘Apple Intelligence,’ Apple’s unique take on AI, aims to rival existing AI models such as Google’s Gemini and Samsung’s Galaxy AI.
One of the most anticipated features is the ability to place icons anywhere on the homescreen, a functionality long enjoyed by Android users. Users can now freely place their app icons in any arrangement they prefer, offering a new level of customization to iOS devices. Additionally, iOS now supports themed icons and wallpaper-based theming, similar to what Android users have enjoyed with Material You and custom launchers.
Control Center on iOS has received a significant update, offering a more intuitive interface for users to customize and manage settings easily. While Android has excelled in this area with features like device and media controls, iOS is catching up by providing users with more options for personalization.
Notable additions to iOS include the introduction of sticker reactions in iMessage and the ability to hide apps for added privacy. Apple has also enhanced its Mail app with automatic email categorization, a feature long available on other platforms. Game mode has been introduced to iOS to optimize performance for gaming, reducing latency for a more responsive gaming experience.
Furthermore, RCS support has been integrated into iMessage, enabling scheduled texts and enhanced messaging capabilities. iOS 18 also includes audio description features for phone calls and voice recordings, as well as seamless accessory pairing inspired by Google’s Fast Pair implementation.
In essence, iOS 18 marks a significant departure for Apple towards a more customizable and user-centric experience, drawing inspiration from the Android ecosystem. The new features and enhancements aim to provide iOS users with a more intuitive and versatile platform, aligning Apple’s offerings more closely with those of its competitors.
