Published 10:30 12 Jun 2024 GMT+1

How to download the new iOS 18 on your iPhone right now before public release this autumn

Developers are warning that the early versions may cause your device to suffer from bugs.

Ella Scott

Die-hard Apple fans desperate to download iOS 18 ahead of its public release can access it now - but there’s a serious catch to be aware of.

This week, the internet has been awash with updates from Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC24) in California.

On Monday, (June 10), it was revealed that digital assistant Siri would be getting an upgrade and that ChatGPT would be being integrated into new iPhones.

Moreover, the watchOS 11 refurbishment was revealed alongside the highly-anticipated software update, iOS 18.

Later this year, you’ll be able to install the latest Apple iOS system which will revolutionize your cell phone’s battery life, allow you to create custom emoji and transcribe phone calls.

Users will be able to experience quirky new design choices, lock their apps away from prying eyes and use Apple Intelligence - a personal intelligence system for iPhone, iPad, and Mac ‘that combines the power of generative models with personal context to deliver intelligence that’s incredibly useful and relevant’.

When is iOS 18 available to download?

Now, despite the buzz, the artificial intelligence-powered iOS 18 isn’t actually available to install publicly until fall.

However, if you’re willing to take an early version of the system then you can download the iOS 18 beta now - but bear in mind it’s likely to feature bugs and things may need to be tweaked.

SOPA Images / Contributor / Getty

How to download the iOS 18 beta?

As of June 10, members of Apple’s paid Developer Program can download the beta.

If you’re already signed up for the program, you just need to head to the Apple Developer site on your iPhone, log into your account using your Apple ID and agree to the terms and conditions.

Then, navigate over to the Downloads page where you’ll be able to see beta downloads for iOS 18.

Next, you need to go to your iPhone Settings, click through to General and then Software Update.

Once in the Software Update section, you should see the iOS 18 beta available to download.

If you’re not signed up for the Developer Program and you want to be then start by heading to the company’s enrolment page.

Sign into the site using your Apple ID before entering your payment information.

Enrolment into Apple’s Developer Program costs $99 per year - but if you don’t want to pay for the privilege of the iOS 18 beta, then you’re best waiting until July when the free public beta will be released.