Introduction
Apple has rolled out its latest iOS 18.4 update, bringing a host of new features, including enhanced AI capabilities, fresh emojis, and smarter photo organization tools. This update builds on Apple’s push toward more intelligent and personalized user experiences. Whether you own an iPhone XS or the latest iPhone 16, iOS 18.4 has something to offer.
In this article, we’ll break down everything new in iOS 18.4, how to install it, and what devices are compatible.
How to Install iOS 18.4
Updating your iPhone to iOS 18.4 is simple:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap General.
- Select Software Update.
- If iOS 18.4 is available, tap Download and Install.
Compatible Devices:
- iPhone XS (2018) and newer
- iPhone 15 Pro & Pro Max
- All iPhone 16 models
Apple Intelligence: Smarter Notifications & More
One of the biggest highlights of iOS 18.4 is the expansion of Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI-powered feature set.
Priority Notifications
Notifications now get a smart upgrade with Priority Notifications. Using AI, your iPhone will highlight urgent alerts at the top of your lock screen and notification center. This ensures you never miss important messages, reminders, or time-sensitive updates.
Multilingual Support
Apple Intelligence now supports additional languages, including:
- French
- German
- Italian
- Portuguese (Brazil)
- Spanish
- Japanese
- Korean
- Chinese (Simplified)
- Localized English for Singapore & India
This makes AI features more accessible to users worldwide.
Vision Pro Integration
Apple Intelligence is also coming to Vision Pro, Apple’s mixed-reality headset. A dedicated Vision Pro app will help users discover new content and experiences optimized for the device.
New Emojis in iOS 18.4
Apple continues to expand its emoji library with expressive new characters:
- 😪 Face with Bags Under Eyes – Perfect for those tired moments.
- 🏴 Flag of Sark – Representing the tiny British island.
- 🥕 Root Vegetable – A new addition for food lovers.
- 🖐️ Fingerprint – Useful for security and tech-related chats.
- 🪚 Shovel – Handy for gardening or construction references.
- 🌳 Leafless Tree – Great for seasonal or nature-themed messages.
- 🎨 Splatter – Ideal for artistic conversations.
- 🎵 Harp – A musical touch for musicians and fans.
These emojis add more fun and versatility to messaging.
Enhanced Photo App Features
The Photos app gets a major upgrade with new filtering and organization tools:
Sorting Options
- Oldest to Newest – Easily find your earliest memories.
- Newest to Oldest – Quickly access recent photos.
Customizable Collections
- Reorder Media Types and Utilities sections.
- Sort albums by date modified for better organization.
Disable Recent Views
Don’t want others seeing what you’ve been browsing? iOS 18.4 lets you disable:
- “Recently Viewed”
- “Recently Shared” collections
Ambient Music: A New Way to Focus
Apple introduces Ambient Music, a feature designed to enhance relaxation and productivity.
How to Access It
- Swipe down from the top-right to open Control Center.
- Tap the + (plus) icon.
- Add Ambient Music.
Playlist Options
- Chill – For unwinding after a long day.
- Sleep – Soothing tracks for better rest.
- Productivity – Focus-enhancing background music.
- Wellbeing – Calming tunes for mindfulness.
Other Notable Updates
Apple News+ Recipe Catalog
Food lovers will appreciate the new Recipe Catalog in Apple News+, featuring:
- Browse & Save Recipes – Easily find and store your favorite dishes.
- Cooking Mode – Step-by-step instructions for seamless meal prep.
Screen Time App Limits
Parents can now rest easy—if a child uninstalls and reinstalls an app, Screen Time restrictions remain intact.
Sketch Style in Image Playground
A new “Sketch” style in Image Playground lets users generate AI-powered images with a hand-drawn aesthetic.
Conclusion
Apple’s iOS 18.4 update delivers meaningful upgrades, from smarter AI notifications to fun new emojis and enhanced photo management. With Apple Intelligence expanding to more languages and devices, the iPhone experience keeps getting better.
Have you updated to iOS 18.4 yet? Let us know your favorite new feature in the comments!