Now that Apple has unveiled the features coming in iOS 18 and the dust has settled, I’ve had some time to consider what these new customization and ‘intelligence’-centric features mean for Apple and why they signal a shift in the company’s mindset.

It’s almost like Apple is no longer stuck in its ways and is now open to change. We’ve seen this with the EU regulation mandating the use of USB-C and the opening up of the iOS platform for multiple App Stores (EU only).

While these changes were forced, Apple’s decision to release arguably the most comprehensive iOS update in almost a decade speaks volumes about the company’s future direction. Let me explain how these changes could be a step forward for Apple and why they may lead to Apple being more flexible.

iOS 18 Could Bring Back Former Users

Many hardcore Apple users, despite enjoying the fruits of Apple’s proverbial “walled garden,” drifted away. This was primarily due to a few reasons: First, Apple was reluctant to let users customize their devices; almost every Home Screen looked the same. Second, the lack of features like RCS and call recording pushed many away.

However, recent iOS updates have given users hope for significant changes. If you remember, it started with the addition of widgets in iOS 14. And now, Apple has allowed users to go all out with customization (with iOS 18), including dark mode and single-color icons, almost inspired by Android’s Material You design language.

Call recording, app locking, and RCS are even better reasons to return to iOS. Yes, call recording alerts both parties that the recording is in progress, but that’s the right approach as it ensures transparency.

Also Read: iOS 18 finally gets T9 dialing and app lock a decade later than it should have

iOS 18 Keeps Things Fresh for Current Users

I, for one, was tired of the same old Home Screen. Yes, you could change widgets and make smart stacks, but it always felt limited. Whenever I went back to an Android device, be it for testing or personal use, I immediately felt better due to the myriad of customization options. It felt liberating. Like coming back home.

Here are a few reasons why I think Apple has changed this, and will please its current user base through this update:

The New Control Center Is Straight Out of Android’s Playbook

One key area lacking in iOS for me was the Control Center. While I learned to live with it, what Apple has done with iOS 18 feels right. Now, you can quickly change the order and resize the controls, including main controls like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This major change has freshened my perspective on iOS.

This brings iOS 18 almost on par with what you can do on Android, and that alone speaks volumes about this big change. I can’t express it enough, but having the volume controls and brightness toggles on top is priceless, at least for me.

iMessage Gets Love Too

Quite a few of us swear by using iMessage for communication. With new features making texting more fun, I believe it will see even wider adoption. You can now bold, italicize, strikethrough, and animate text. New Tapbacks even let you send your own stickers, making for a very fun experience. Plus, of course, you get the message scheduling feature, which, let’s be real, can come in clutch often.

Apple Intelligence Shows How Generative AI Could Be Used to Add a Personal Touch

How often have you wished you could create a quick caricature of your loved ones right on your device? I have … countless times.

So, when Apple revealed that on-device generative models could make quick illustrations of your friends and family, I was elated. With on-device writing and communication tools, it adds great value for users.

Genmoji and Image Creation Is Fun

This adds a massive personal touch to your conversations and shows how generative AI can be used differently. The best part is that it all happens on-device, with privacy in check. You don’t have to tell Apple Intelligence who your loved ones are; it learns from your device. This seamless integration sets Apple’s implementation apart from the rest.

On-Device Writing and Communication Tools

These tools make a lot of sense for the average user. Whether summarizing articles, emails or preparing a cover letter, you can do it all without installing third-party apps. This move makes AI mainstream, helping it to reach billions of users who will benefit from these features.

Combined with existing features in apps like iMessage, these changes make communication fun, which is fantastic.

Also Read: Download the iOS 18 wallpapers for your iPhone

Are We Seeing a More Flexible Apple?

Apple is not known for adapting quickly in terms of hardware and software. It took over a decade to switch to USB-C on the iPhone. iOS looked practically the same across multiple generations until iOS 18. You get the gist. But I believe Apple is now more open to change than ever before, and this is just the beginning.

It’s the little things that count. Apple has finally added a theme engine to iOS that lets you change icon colors. This gives me hope for a future where you can install third-party icon packs and go wild with customization. While this may not be everyone’s preference, for someone like me who loves adding character to everything and grew up tinkering with Android devices, this is a welcome move.

There’s more: think about Lock Screen quick shortcuts, scheduling messages in iMessage, the Passwords app, custom routes in Maps, and a truly personal Photos app. It all signifies a massive change in Apple’s way of working, and I’m all for it.