NEWS  Apple  December 22, 2023  Reading time: 3 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

As iOS 17 updates continue to make their way to Apple devices, the tech community eagerly anticipates the next major release – iOS 18. Set to enter beta testing in June and reach the public in September, iOS 18 promises advancements and refinements.In an exclusive scoop  MacRumors has obtained information about early development versions of iOS 18, shedding light on the operating system's codename "Crystal" and its ties to the upcoming iPhone 16 range.

Unraveling iPhone 16 Models and Their Codenames

The cornerstone of iOS 18's development lies in the references to four unreleased iPhone models, aligning seamlessly with existing knowledge about the iPhone 16 lineup. Codenamed D47, D48, D93, and D94, these models correspond to the standard iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, respectively. Notably, there's no evidence thus far of the rumored "iPhone Ultra" within the iPhone 16 family, challenging previous speculations.

Decoding Device Identifiers: Lessons from iPhone 15 Pro Max

Drawing from past experiences with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Apple's choice of device identifiers provides insights into the company's strategic nomenclature. While the iPhone 15 Pro Max featured an alternate version labeled "D84S" for 5G modem testing, no such deviation has been identified in the iPhone 16 series. The absence of an "Ultra" model is also reinforced by the lack of a distinct identifier.

The Power Behind iPhone 16: A18 Chip – Codenamed Tahiti

A groundbreaking revelation from the iOS 18 code is the unified use of a new system-on-chip, codenamed "t8140" or Tahiti, internally known as the A18 chip. Unlike its predecessor, the iPhone 15 lineup, the entire iPhone 16 range, spanning from the base model to the Pro variants, will share the same A18 chip. This marks a departure from Apple's previous approach of employing different chips for base and Pro models.

Differentiating Tiers: A Potential A18 and A18 Pro Branding Strategy

While the code indicates a uniform use of the t8140 chip, speculations arise regarding potential branding differentiations. Apple might opt for a nuanced approach, using A18 for the base model and A18 Pro for the Pro variants. This strategy would allow for tier-specific distinctions without compromising the technological prowess of the A18 chip.

Beyond the Chip: Teasing the Broadcom Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Module

The iOS 18 code hints at additional hardware features, specifically a Broadcom Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module slated for the iPhone 16 range. However, details surrounding this module remain elusive, leaving enthusiasts curious about the enhancements it might bring to connectivity and performance.

Early Development Teasers: What iOS 18 Doesn't Reveal

While the operating system gives us glimpses into the iPhone 16 and iOS 18, it's essential to note that the current stage of development might limit the exposure of groundbreaking changes. As of now, iOS 18 appears to share commonalities with iOS 17, signaling a focus on refinement rather than revolutionary alterations.

The revelations from iOS 18's early development offer a tantalizing preview of what's to come with the iPhone 16 lineup. With the A18 chip at its core and a potential branding strategy in play, Apple's continued innovation promises an exciting chapter for iPhone enthusiasts worldwide. 

 SOURCE: MACRUMORS.COM / COVER IMAGE: REVIEW SPACE