Apple is preparing a new Home Screen layout for iOS 18 that offers more customization options compared to what’s currently possible with iOS 17 and previous iPhone updates, according to Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman.
In the paywalled Q&A section of the weekly Power On newsletter, some expectations are outlined for what Apple is preparing software-wise for WWDC 2024. While generative AI will undoubtedly be the star of the show for iOS 18, Apple is reportedly preparing a big update to the iPhone’s Home Screen that will allow it to be more customizable. While details remain limited at present, the new layout could allow users to freely place app icons and widgets anywhere on the Home Screen without being forced to follow the current grid layout system.
Apple continues to work on other software updates alongside iOS 18. As previously reported, the company is working on the visionOS 2 update, codenamed Constellation, in time for WWDC 2024. On the other hand, the watchOS 11 update is said to be “fairly minor” after the massive watchOS 10 update last year that introduced widgets with the Smart Stack alongside notable redesigns for most first-party apps and other software elements.
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Apple has big AI plans with the upcoming iOS 18 and macOS 15 updates, which should be a few months away as WWDC 2024 edges closer. Tim Cook has continuously teased Apple’s AI plans whenever possible, stating that it will “break new ground” in generative AI sometime this year. Cook also acknowledged that Apple is investing a substantial amount of money in AI research.
In addition to Cook’s public statements, Apple continues to work behind the scenes to bolster its AI backend. The company recently acquired DarwinAI, a Canadian startup that specializes in making efficient generative AI models that are compact enough to be powered on-device. Apple is also in talks with companies like Google, OpenAI, and Baidu to power the backend of cloud-based AI features.
Beyond the expected Home Screen changes, iOS 18 will be Apple’s entry into the world of generative AI. The company was previously reported to be preparing AI features across the system, with AI capabilities heading to Siri, Spotlight Search, Messages, Apple Music, Xcode, and more. These features, alongside UI design updates and the reported Home Screen changes, will reportedly make iOS 18 one of the biggest iPhone updates in history.
