As we enter the US Christmas season of 2024, many users are unwrapping new iPhones and exploring iOS 18's capabilities. This comprehensive guide covers critical settings and features that enhance the iPhone experience, along with the latest developments in RCS messaging support across carriers.
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| New iPhone users are discovering the features of iOS 18 this Christmas season |
RCS Messaging Evolution
The implementation of RCS support on iPhone marks a significant shift in Apple's messaging ecosystem. While initially limited to major carriers, the protocol has now expanded to include numerous smaller providers. However, the current implementation still lacks end-to-end encryption when messaging between iPhones and Android devices, maintaining similar security levels to traditional SMS.
Carrier Support Expansion
The RCS messaging landscape has grown substantially, with support now extending beyond the big three carriers. Notable additions include Boost Mobile, Consumer Cellular, Cricket, and various regional carriers. However, Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile, despite their T-Mobile acquisition, remain notable exceptions affecting approximately three million customers.
Essential Performance Optimizations
iOS 18 introduces several performance-enhancing features that new iPhone users should activate immediately. The Haptic Touch speed boost, accessible through Accessibility settings, significantly improves device responsiveness. This enhancement, originally introduced in iOS 17, provides a more refined user experience through faster haptic feedback.
Browser Management and Efficiency
Safari performance can be optimized through automatic tab management, a feature that helps prevent browser slowdown and unexpected tab deletions. Users can configure tabs to close automatically after predetermined periods, ranging from one day to one month, while maintaining access to recently closed tabs through a simple gesture.
Express Mode Benefits
For daily convenience, Express Mode in Apple Wallet proves invaluable, especially for transit payments. This feature functions even when the iPhone's battery is depleted, continuing to work for up to five hours after the device runs out of power. It eliminates the need for Face ID or Touch ID authentication during routine transactions, streamlining the payment process.
