# iOS 18 Launch: Essential Information for Developers
With the imminent launch of iOS 18, Apple is preparing to embrace a surge of new applications and updates from developers. This exciting phase promises to benefit both developers and users, as the latest version of Apple’s operating system is set to improve user experience through fresh features and enhancements.
## Important Dates and Announcements
Following Apple’s latest special event, the company has unveiled the Release Candidate (RC) builds of iOS 18, in addition to iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, tvOS 18, visionOS 2, and macOS Sequoia. These builds are currently accessible to developers and beta testers, with a public release anticipated on September 16, 2024, assuming no major bugs arise beforehand.
## Submitting Applications for iOS 18
In preparation for the new operating system, Apple has opened the submission process for developers to upload their apps or updates to the App Store. A new section on the Apple Developer portal lays out the submission procedure, urging developers to make the most of the new capabilities offered by Apple platforms. This presents a pivotal chance for developers to guarantee their apps are tailor-made for the features that iOS 18 will introduce.
### Innovative Features and APIs
iOS 18 is poised to deliver a wealth of new APIs and functionalities for developers to incorporate into their applications. Some of the prominent enhancements include:
– **Apple Intelligence Tools**: These resources will empower developers to build smarter, more responsive applications.
– **Control Center and Lock Screen Shortcuts**: Fresh functionalities that allow quicker access to app features directly from the Control Center and Lock Screen.
– **Dark Icons on the Home Screen**: Visual updates that resonate with user preferences for dark mode.
For developers concentrating on watchOS 11, there are thrilling new features available, such as the **Double Tap API** and the provision of **Live Activities** within their applications, promoting interactivity and usability on the Apple Watch.
## Getting Ready for Submission
Developers aiming to submit apps compatible with iOS 18 must download Xcode 16 RC from the Apple Developer site. It’s worth mentioning that Apple usually defers app updates until the official launch date of the new iOS version, so developers should strategize their submissions accordingly.
## Final Thoughts
The forthcoming release of iOS 18, alongside its associated operating systems, offers a remarkable opportunity for developers to innovate and augment their applications. By capitalizing on the new features and APIs, developers can craft more engaging and efficient apps that meet the changing demands of users. As the September 16 launch date draws near, there’s a palpable excitement within the developer community, with the potential for groundbreaking applications at an all-time high.
