iPhone 18 Details, Apple Upgrade, iOS Tips & Tricks and the Latest iOS Updates.
This week newsletter: iPhone 18 Details, Apple Upgrade, iOS Tips & Tricks and the Latest iOS Updates.
NEWSLETTER
7/28/202613 min read
Newsletter #6
iPhone 18 Details, Apple Upgrade, iOS Tips & Tricks and the Latest iOS Updates.
Welcome to the 6th edition of the Tech With Eugene newsletter! 💙
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Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro and Apple’s first foldable iPhone, the iPhone Ultra. Both iPhones are expected to launch this September.But Apple has another iPhone waiting in the wings. The regular iPhone 18 is reportedly planned for spring 2027, breaking away from Apple’s familiar September release schedule.
So, why is Apple making us wait, and what can we expect from the iPhone 18? Grab a coffee and get comfortable as we explore the latest rumours, Apple Upgrade, this week’s iOS tips and tricks, and the newest beta updates.
Apple is changing the iPhone launch Schedule.
If you normally upgrade to the standard iPhone, September 2026 could look very different.
Apple is planning to split the iPhone 18 launch across two separate moments. Instead of releasing the entire lineup at once, the most expensive models are expected to arrive first, followed by the more affordable iPhones several months later.
Here is the simple breakdown:
September 2026
iPhone 18 Pro
iPhone 18 Pro Max
Apple’s first foldable iPhone, currently referred to as the iPhone Ultra
Spring 2027
iPhone 18
iPhone 18e
Possibly the second-generation iPhone Air
This means anyone waiting for the regular iPhone 18 may have to be patient until early 2027.
Why is Apple splitting the launch?
Apple usually introduces its new iPhones together in September. This time, the company appears to be giving its premium models the spotlight first.
The iPhone 18 Pro models and the foldable iPhone are expected to bring the biggest upgrade, and the highest prices. Launching the regular models later would give Apple two major iPhone moments each year instead of one.
It would also allow each group of devices to receive more attention. September would focus on Apple’s latest premium technology, while spring would introduce the more accessible models.
For customers, however, the change is important: choosing a regular iPhone could mean waiting around six months longer than usual.
What to expect from the regular iPhone 18.
Most of the current rumours focus on the iPhone 18 Pro and foldable iPhone because they are expected to arrive first. We know less about the standard iPhone 18, but several interesting details have already emerged.
A familiar design
The regular iPhone 18 is not expected to receive a major redesign. Apple could keep the same 6.3-inch display size, while the more affordable iPhone 18e may continue with a 6.1-inch screen.
The overall appearance could therefore remain familiar, although a smaller Dynamic Island may give the front of the phone a cleaner look.
Apple’s new A20 chip
One of the biggest upgrades could be the A20 chip, built using a new 2-nanometre process.
In simple terms, smaller chip technology allows Apple to fit more performance into a compact and efficient design. The result could be a faster iPhone that uses less power, potentially improving battery life without sacrificing speed.
The regular iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e could receive the A20, while the Pro models are expected to use a more powerful A20 Pro version.
Will it have enough memory for every Siri feature?
There are conflicting rumours about the amount of RAM inside the iPhone 18. Some reports suggest 12GB, while others point to 9GB.
That difference could matter more than it sounds.
Some new Apple Intelligence features reportedly require at least 12GB of RAM because they run directly on the iPhone. These include more advanced Siri voice controls for pace and expressivity, as well as improved speech-to-text dictation.
If Apple chooses 9GB, the regular iPhone 18 may not support every AI feature available on the Pro models. I hope Apple avoids creating another situation where a brand-new iPhone misses out on important software features.
A sharper front camera
Every model in the iPhone 18 lineup could receive a new 24-megapixel front camera, replacing the current 18-megapixel sensor.
That should improve selfies and video calls while also giving you more detail when cropping a photo.
A brighter display
Apple is also said to be working on a noticeably brighter screen for the regular iPhone 18. This would make the display easier to see outdoors, especially in direct sunlight.
Reports suggest Apple’s brightness requirements are so ambitious that at least one display supplier has struggled to meet them.
A smaller Dynamic Island
The smaller Dynamic Island may not be exclusive to the Pro models. One rumour claims Apple could introduce it across the complete iPhone 18 lineup.
It would not disappear entirely, but reducing its size would create more usable screen space and make the front of the iPhone feel more modern.
A simpler Camera Control
Apple could simplify the Camera Control to reduce production costs.
The current version detects both touch gestures and pressure. The next version may rely mainly on pressure sensing while keeping the same essential controls.
Most users may not notice a major difference, but it could help Apple control the cost of producing the standard iPhone 18.
Apple’s next-generation C2 modem
The iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e could also use Apple’s new C2 modem instead of relying entirely on Qualcomm.
A modem connects your iPhone to mobile networks. Apple’s new version is expected to improve efficiency and could support faster 5G connections.
It may also introduce a privacy option that limits how precisely mobile networks can determine your location. Instead of seeing an exact address, a network may only be able to identify the general neighbourhood.
A possible price increase
There is less encouraging news too. This was expected after recent price hikes. After raising the prices of several Macs and iPads, Apple may also increase iPhone prices.
The regular iPhone 18 could therefore cost more than the iPhone 17, although no exact price has been reported yet.
Newsletter #6
Image: Base iPhone 17
What about the next iPhone Air
Apple introduced the first iPhone Air in September 2025 as a completely new type of iPhone.
It was created for people who want a large, powerful iPhone that feels much thinner and lighter in the hand.
At only 5.6mm thick and 165 grams, it is the thinnest iPhone Apple has ever made. It combines a large 6.5-inch display with the powerful A19 Pro chip, placing it between the regular iPhone and the more advanced Pro models.
The main difference is the focus. The iPhone Air is designed around portability and appearance instead of having the biggest battery or most complete camera system. It has just one 48-megapixel rear camera, while the Pro models offer multiple cameras and more advanced photography features.
So the the iPhone Air is Apple’s answer for people who want Pro-level speed and a premium design, but prefer a phone that feels noticeably slimmer and lighter.
And here is the thing: the first model reportedly did not sell as well as Apple had hoped, so its successor is no longer expected in September 2026. The iPhone Air 2 could now arrive in spring 2027 alongside the regular iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e. Apple may also add a second rear camera to make the next model more versatile and appealing
A very different year for the iPhone
Apple’s new strategy would make the iPhone calendar easier to understand:
September becomes the moment for the most advanced, and most expensive, iPhones.
Spring becomes the moment for the standard and more affordable models.
The iPhone 18 may not deliver the dramatic transformation expected from the iPhone Ultra, but the A20 chip, sharper front camera, brighter display and possible smaller Dynamic Island could still make it a meaningful upgrade.
The biggest question may be whether Apple gives it enough RAM to support every new Apple Intelligence feature.
My question to you is: Would you wait until spring 2027 for the regular iPhone 18, or would the split launch tempt you to choose a Pro model instead? You can reply to this newsletter if you like.
Apple Upgrade
Apple Upgrade is expected to launch this week. This new program called Apple Upgrade in the United States on Tuesday, July 28.
The service will let customers lease most iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch models through monthly payments managed by Klarna.
iPhones and Apple Watches will have a 24-month term, while iPads and Macs can be leased for 36 months. Once the term ends, customers can return the device, upgrade to a newer model or pay an additional amount to keep it.
Apple Upgrade works more like leasing a car than buying a device in installments. The lower monthly payments let you use the device, but you will not automatically own it at the end.
Not every Apple product will be available through the program. Lower-priced devices such as the iPhone 16, Apple Watch SE, entry-level iPad and MacBook Neo are reportedly excluded.
AppleCare+ will also not be included in the monthly price and must be purchased separately.
AppleCare+ is Apple’s optional protection plan for your device. It provides extra coverage beyond the standard warranty, including repairs for accidental damage such as a cracked screen, drops or liquid damage.
It also includes battery replacement when the battery falls below 80% of its original capacity and gives you priority access to Apple Support.
Theft and loss are only covered if you choose the separate AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss plan.
AppleCare+ will reportedly not be included with Apple Upgrade.
This means customers will need to purchase extra protection separately if they want it.
When Apple Upgrade launches, Apple is expected to stop accepting new customers for its current iPhone Upgrade Program. Existing members will reportedly be allowed to continue using it for the time being.
For now, Apple Upgrade is expected to be available only in the United States. Would you like Apple to bring this leasing option to your country? Whenever there are noteworthy app updates, I’ll share them with you here.
Image: Current iPhone Air
I shared this photo about Apple Upgrade also on my Threads page, to explain how Apple Upgrade works. Click the image or link to view the full post.
This Week’s iOS Tips & Tricks
It’s time for this week’s iOS Tips! In every edition, I highlight useful features and hidden tools that can make your iPhone easier to use. This week, I have two more practical features you may not know about.
1. Type during a phone call with RTT
Have you ever wondered what the RTT icon on your iPhone does during a phone call?
RTT stands for Real-Time Text. It lets you type during a phone call instead of speaking. The other person can see your message appear as you type.
The feature is designed for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have difficulty speaking. You do not need to install an additional app or connect a separate device.
How to enable RTT
Open Settings.
Tap Accessibility.
Select RTT/TTY. Depending on your carrier, this may be listed as RTT, TTY or RTT/TTY.
Turn on Software RTT.
Enable Send Immediately if you want each character to appear while you type. Leave it disabled if you prefer to finish your message before sending it.
How to start an RTT call
Open the Phone app.
Go to Contacts and select the person you want to call.
Tap the call button.
Choose RTT/TTY Call.
Wait for the call to connect and tap the RTT button.
Start typing your message in the text field.
If Send Immediately is enabled, the other person will see every character appear in real time. Otherwise, tap the send button when your message is ready.
You can also turn on your microphone if you want to combine typed messages with your voice.
Good to know: RTT is not supported by every mobile carrier or in every country. If you cannot find the option, your carrier may not offer it.
I also shared this iOS tip on Threads page. Click here to view the post.
2. Lock an app with Face ID
Do you sometimes hand your unlocked iPhone to someone to show them a photo or website? You can protect your private apps with Face ID so they cannot be opened without your permission.
How to lock an app
Find the app on your Home Screen.
Touch and hold the app icon.
Tap Require Face ID.
Confirm your choice using Face ID.
The app will now ask for Face ID every time it is opened. After you close the app, it locks itself again automatically.
Information from a locked app will also stop appearing in places such as notification previews, Spotlight searches and Siri suggestions.
But you can even go one step further. Want to hide the app completely?
Touch and hold the app icon.
Tap Require Face ID.
Select Hide and Require Face ID.
Confirm with Face ID and tap Hide App.
The app will disappear from your Home Screen and move to the Hidden folder at the bottom of your App Library. You will need Face ID to open that folder.
This is particularly useful for apps containing personal photos, conversations, financial information or other private content.
Which iPhones support app locking?
The option to lock or hide apps was introduced with iOS 18. It works on the iPhone XR, iPhone XS and newer models, provided they are running iOS 18 or later.
On iPhones with Face ID, apps are unlocked using your face.
For example The iPhone SE models use Touch ID instead because they do not have Face ID. A device passcode can also be used, although some protection settings may require biometric authentication.
3. Bonus tip: Lock your iPhone to one app
Handing your iPhone to a child or friend? Guided Access lets you temporarily lock your iPhone inside a single app. They can use that app, but they cannot return to the Home Screen or open anything else.
How to enable Guided Access
Open Settings.
Go to Accessibility.
Scroll down and select Guided Access.
Turn on Guided Access.
Open Passcode Settings and enable Face ID or set a separate passcode.
How to start it
Open the app you want the other person to use.
Triple-click the side button. On older iPhones with a Home button, triple-click the Home button.
Select Guided Access if a menu appears.
Tap Start.
Your iPhone is now locked to that app. You can even disable certain parts of the screen, block the volume buttons or set a time limit.
How to exit Guided Access
Triple-click the side or Home button again.
Authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID or your Guided Access passcode.
Tap End.
It is perfect when someone wants to view a photo, watch a video or play a game without being able to browse through the rest of your iPhone.
Important: Emergency calling and Crash Detection are unavailable while Guided Access is active, so remember to end the session when you are finished.
iOS 27 Public Beta 2 is out
Last week Apple released iOS 27 Developer Beta 4, and just 1 day later Public Beta 2 came out. PB 2 has the same build number as Developer Beta 4. (24A5390f)
What’s New in iOS 27 Public Beta 2:
A new Adaptive Audio control
AirPods Pro users will notice a redesigned Adaptive Audio slider in Control Center. It now features Apple’s new Liquid Glass style, and the same design also appears inside the AirPods settings.
More natural Siri voices
Two of Siri’s enhanced voices now let you adjust their speaking speed and expressiveness. This should help Siri sound more natural and personal. Five additional voices show the same controls, but Apple currently labels these as “Coming Soon.”
A refreshed Siri welcome screen
Opening Siri from the Dynamic Island or by swiping down on the Home Screen may now reveal a new welcome screen. It gives the updated Siri experience a cleaner and more polished introduction.
The Depth Effect works properly again
Beta 3 introduced a bug that affected the Depth Effect on some Lock Screen wallpapers. Apple has fixed the issue in Beta 4, so wallpapers should now appear correctly again.
iOS 26.6 is now available
Apple has officially released iOS 26.6. This is the stable update that follows iOS 26.5.2 and is available for everyone. Not only developers or beta testers. It comes wild build number 23G71.
A stable release is the finished public version designed for everyday use. You do not need to join Apple’s Beta Software Program to install it.
iOS 26.6 is a relatively small update focused mainly on bug fixes, but it also fixed more then 75 security issues. Here is the full list.
I’ve also written a helpful step-by-step guide on how to prepare your iPhone before installing the latest iOS beta.
What's new in iOS 26.6
A warning for blocked contacts
Your iPhone can store a maximum of around 20,000 blocked contacts. If you reach that limit, iOS 26.6 will now display a warning and ask you to remove an existing contact before blocking another one.
Most people will never see this message, but at least the limit is now clearly explained.
Preparing your iPhone for iOS 27
iOS 26.6 also starts preparing Spotlight, the search system built into your iPhone, for iOS 27.
In simple terms, Apple is organizing and indexing some of your content in advance. This should reduce the amount of work your iPhone needs to do after installing iOS 27 later this year and may help Spotlight and Siri become ready more quickly.
What about the new anti-theft feature?
Code discovered during the iOS 26.6 beta suggested that Apple is developing a feature that could automatically lock an iPhone when someone suddenly grabs it from your hand.
However, Apple has not confirmed this as an active iOS 26.6 feature. It may arrive in a future software update instead.
You can install iOS 26.6 by going to Settings → General → Software Update.
That’s all for this week! If you know someone who might enjoy this newsletter, feel free to forward it and invite them to join us.
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