Predictions from 9to5Mac and MacRumors point towards the upcoming release of Apple’s iOS 18.3 update within the following week. Both platforms analyze the devices used by their visitors to anticipate a surge of updates. It has become customary for Apple to roll out minor adjustments after debuting a new version, and iOS 18.3.1 is expected to follow suit. However, an unexpected buzz surrounded the new update due to a TikTok rumor regarding an optional satellite connectivity feature.
What is to be Expected in iOS 18.3.1?
Specifics regarding iOS 18.3.1 have not been disclosed by Apple. Nevertheless, the update is likely to encompass bug fixes, security enhancements, and improvements in user experience. After a new release like iOS 18.2.1, initial updates generally focus on these subtle adjustments rather than introducing significant new features.
Considering that iOS 18.3 introduced automatic activation of Apple Intelligence on iPhone 15 Pro and later models, it is plausible that iOS 18.3.1 may refine Apple’s generative AI capabilities as well. The previous version, iOS 18.3, addressed issues in Genomji, HealthKit, and the Writing Tools API.
Users can verify the presence of available software updates by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update on their Apple devices.
Expected Release Date of iOS 18.3.1
MacRumors has hinted that iOS 18.3.1 is poised to be unveiled “within the upcoming weeks.”
The following version, iOS 18.4, is anticipated to undergo beta testing in March, potentially bringing forth enhanced generative AI capabilities for Siri, new emoji, as well as security and privacy updates as Apple refines its collaboration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
Does iOS 18.3 Automatically Establish a Connection to Starlink?
No, iOS 18.3 does not automatically link devices to Starlink, the satellite connectivity service overseen by Elon Musk. Earlier in February, a false rumor circulated on TikTok suggesting that downloading iOS 18.3 would grant Starlink automatic access to Apple devices.
Although iOS 18.3 includes a network setting offering optional Starlink access, this feature is exclusively accessible to T-Mobile subscribers participating in a beta initiative. This capability is a result of a collaboration between T-Mobile and Starlink, rather than a direct integration between Apple and Starlink.
Apple’s satellite Emergency SOS functionality, which operates when no cellular or Wi-Fi network is available, remains distinct from Starlink services and remains unaltered in iOS 18.3.
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