iOS 18.4 Now Available: Apple Rolls Out Major iPhone Update With Priority Notifications

Apple has released iOS 18.4 early—arriving on March 31 instead of the expected April date—bringing a wave of new features, bug fixes, and a major step forward in Apple Intelligence. This update is available now for iPhones from the iPhone Xs and newer, including the latest iPhone 16 series.

Here’s a full breakdown of what’s included in the update and why it’s recommended for all users.

Key Features in iOS 18.4

1. Apple Intelligence-Powered Priority Notifications

The standout feature in iOS 18.4 is Priority Notifications. Using Apple Intelligence, your iPhone can now sort notifications and push the most important ones to the top of your stack. This helps users avoid missing key messages amid less relevant alerts.

This feature is available on:

• iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max
• All iPhone 16 models, including the new iPhone 16e

2. Language Expansion for Apple Intelligence

Apple has expanded language support for Apple Intelligence, making it more globally accessible. Newly supported languages include:

• French
• German
• Italian
• Japanese
• Korean
• Portuguese (Brazil)
• Spanish
• Chinese (Simplified)
• English (localized for Singapore and India)

3. New Emojis

iOS 18.4 adds several new emoji, including:

• Smiley with bags under the eyes
• Fingerprint
• Splatter
• Root vegetable
• Leafless tree
• Harp
• Shovel
• Flag of Sark

4. Apple Vision Pro Integration

Users with an Apple Vision Pro will now see a new companion app automatically downloaded to their iPhone. This app helps locate compatible content and manage headset settings.

5. Photos App Improvements

Several user-friendly updates have been added:

• New album sorting options
• Filter controls for Library view
• Hide or reorder items by oldest/newest
• Better import settings for Face ID-protected photos

6. Updated News+ Food Section

News+ subscribers now get a dedicated recipe section, featuring content from multiple publishers. It includes:

• A recipe catalog
• Restaurant features
• Kitchen tips
• Saved recipes

7. Enhanced Safari Search and App Store Controls

• Recent search suggestions make browsing faster
• App downloads can be paused and resumed without restarting

8. Better Parental Controls

• Child account setup is now simpler
• Screen Time loopholes from app uninstall/reinstall have been patched

9. New Widgets and Home Features

• Podcasts widget lets you track followed shows and latest episodes
• Home app now supports Matter-compatible robot vacuums
• Ambient music is now accessible from Control Center

How to Download iOS 18.4

To install the update:

1. Open Settings on your iPhone
2. Tap General > Software Update
3. Select Download and Install

The update size is approximately 3.76GB, and installation takes about 10 minutes.

Who Should Install This Update?

Apple recommends iOS 18.4 for all users, especially those with newer devices. The update enhances notification management, expands AI functionality, and improves app usability—without requiring a device upgrade.

More….

• https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2025/03/31/apple-ios-184-new-release-date-major-iphone-update-lands-any-minute-now
• https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/03/apple-intelligence-features-expand-to-new-languages-and-regions-today
• https://www.theverge.com/news/639849/apple-ios-18-4-intelligence-priority-notifications