# iOS 18 Beta 8: New Features and Expectations
Apple has rolled out iOS 18 beta 8, likely the last beta before the Release Candidate (RC) version. This update comes just one week after beta 7 was issued to developers, and the RC is anticipated to launch alongside the iPhone 16, expected to be revealed at Apple’s forthcoming event.
## New Features in iOS 18 Beta 8
### 1. **Home Screen Personalization**
One of the standout enhancements in iOS 18 beta 8 is the improved customization capabilities for the Home Screen. Apple has provided users with more freedom to arrange their apps. Apps can now be positioned anywhere on the screen, moving away from the classic grid layout that has defined iOS for many years. This allows users to craft a more individualized and visually striking Home Screen by arranging app icons and widgets in any desired layout.
Moreover, app icons and widgets can now showcase a fresh appearance with dark or tinted effects, contributing to a more unified and appealing Home Screen. Users also have the option to enlarge app icons, which is particularly beneficial for those wanting to highlight specific apps or enhance accessibility.
### 2. **Enhancements to the Lock Screen**
The Lock Screen has also been updated in this latest beta. Users now have the ability to select new widgets to substitute the default Flashlight and Camera functions, allowing for a more tailored Lock Screen experience and quick access to the information and tools that are most important to them.
### 3. **Adjustments in Control Center**
iOS 18 beta 8 continues to polish the Control Center, providing additional customization features. Users can now rearrange and personalize the Control Center to better meet their needs, making frequently accessed controls and features easier to reach.
### 4. **Updates to the Messages App**
The Messages app has been a central focus for iOS 18, and beta 8 advances with powerful new capabilities. Users can now enjoy brand-new text effects, custom messages, and the option to use any emoji as a tapback. Furthermore, scheduled messaging enables users to draft messages ahead of time and send them later, adding convenience to communication.
### 5. **Introduction of the Passwords App**
A key addition in iOS 18 is the new Passwords app, built upon Keychain’s framework. This app simplifies the management of passwords, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes. The Passwords app is designed as a comprehensive solution for all password-related needs, providing a more efficient and secure user experience.
### 6. **App Locking and Hiding Features**
Apple has rolled out new functionalities that permit users to lock and hide apps. Once an app is locked or concealed, its content—such as messages or emails—will be hidden from searches, notifications, and other areas within the system. Access to the app is restricted to Face ID or Touch ID, adding an extra layer of privacy and security. This feature is especially helpful for those wishing to keep certain apps or information confidential.
## What’s Not Included?
Despite a myriad of innovative features in iOS 18, it is important to note that Apple has postponed the main Apple Intelligence platform to iOS 18.1. Consequently, one of the year’s most awaited features won’t be accessible in the initial iOS 18 release. Users will need to wait for the subsequent update to utilize this feature.
## Additional Beta Releases
In conjunction with iOS 18 beta 8, Apple has also introduced the eighth beta versions of other operating systems, including iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, macOS Sequoia, tvOS 18, and visionOS 2. These updates aim to further enhance the user experience across Apple’s ecosystem, ensuring cohesion among all devices.
## Summary
iOS 18 beta 8 represents a major advancement toward the final rollout of iOS 18, introducing a variety of new features and enhancements that improve customization, privacy, and usability. As we near the official unveiling of the iPhone 16 and the Release Candidate build of iOS 18, users can anticipate a more tailored and secure experience on their iPhones.
Stay tuned for additional updates as Apple works on perfecting iOS 18 ahead of its official launch.
