Apple recently confirmed the dates for the much-anticipated WWDC 2024 event. The event will be held from June 10th to 14th, and Apple is expected to make some exciting announcements. One of the major announcements expected at WWDC is the first look at the new operating system update for iPhones, iOS 18. According to speculation and leaks, iOS 18 will be the biggest iPhone OS update Apple has ever released. It will reportedly include the integration of AI features, RCS messaging support, and more.
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In addition to the anticipated features of iOS 18, a recent report from MacRumors suggests that Apple is planning to incorporate topographic maps into the Apple Maps app for iOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS 2. Furthermore, iPhone users may soon enjoy the ability to create custom routes in Apple Maps, enabling them to personalise and preview their routes before embarking on their journeys.
Topographic maps
Apple initially introduced topographic maps in watchOS. Since their debut, these maps have become a vital tool for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring detailed trails, elevation contours, and landmarks, all of which are particularly beneficial for precision navigation during activities like hiking. Apple has also been methodically expanding their reach across the United States.
This year, however, new reports hint at the potential extension of these maps to iOS, macOS, and visionOS platforms. Analyst Nicovarez suggests in his report that the code for topographic maps was implemented last year but only activated in watchOS 10. It remained inactive on iOS and macOS at that time. However, recent updates to the code for iOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS 2 reveals that the feature is now active. This further points to an expanded availability of topographic maps with the upcoming iOS 18 upgrade, as reported by MacRumors.
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Custom route creation
In addition to topographic maps, Apple is reportedly set to introduce custom route creation with iOS 18. This feature would enable iPhone users to design their own specific routes for trips, providing an alternative to the routes suggested by Apple Maps. Currently, Apple Maps offers multiple route options to a destination, but with iOS 18, users would have complete control over the precise details of their route.
Interestingly, the anticipated enhancements to Apple Maps, including topographic maps and custom routes, are just a glimpse of the broader vision for iOS 18. These updates go beyond the expected focus on customization and AI features. According to MacRumors, iOS 18 will, for the first time, allow users to freely arrange app icons on the home screen, even creating spaces between them. Â Additionally, iOS 18 is set to adopt the Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging standard and incorporate design elements from visionOS.
All in all, according to reports, with the upcoming iPhone operating system Apple is aiming to enhance home screen flexibility and deliver a more user-centric design experience.
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Notably, the full suite of features for iOS 18 are confidential until Apple’s official announcement at the Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) in June. Along with the iOS 18, Apple is also expected to unveil updates for iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, visionOS 2, and macOS. After the reveal, the developer betas of these OS updates are expected in June, with a public release planned for fall, likely coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 16 series.
