Apple’s iOS 18 introduces exciting features such as a redesigned Control Center, enhanced Siri capabilities, and improved privacy options. However, as with many software updates, users have encountered several bugs and glitches since its release. Below are the most common iOS 18 software issues, along with potential solutions.
Most Common iOS 18 Software Bugs
1. App Crashes and Instability
Users have reported frequent crashes in specific apps, including Instagram and Apple’s Messages app. A known bug in Messages involves crashes when users attempt to share Watch Faces. In some cases, conversations need to be deleted entirely to restore functionality, though this may result in lost chat history.
Solution:
- Update your apps to the latest version.
- Restart your iPhone or reinstall problematic apps.
- Check for iOS updates regularly, as Apple often rolls out bug fixes with new versions【17】【18】.
2. Battery Drain and Overheating
Excessive battery drain is a common complaint following the iOS 18 update. Users report their iPhones heating up quickly and losing battery even with moderate use.
Solution:
- Disable Background App Refresh for non-essential apps (Settings > General > Background App Refresh).
- Reduce location services and limit push notifications.
- Restart your iPhone and install any pending software updates, which may optimize battery performance【19】.
3. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity Issues
Users have encountered unstable Wi-Fi connections and difficulties maintaining Bluetooth pairings. Devices that worked seamlessly on previous iOS versions may now drop connections randomly.
Solution:
- Forget and reconnect to Wi-Fi networks (Settings > Wi-Fi > Tap the “i” next to the network > Forget This Network).
- Reset network settings (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings).
- Toggle Airplane mode on and off to refresh connections【19】.
4. Face ID and Touch ID Malfunctions
Face ID and Touch ID functionality can become unreliable following the iOS 18 update. Some users report their devices fail to recognize them or require repeated attempts.
Solution:
- Clean the Face ID or Touch ID sensor area.
- Re-register your face or fingerprint by removing the current data and setting it up again (Settings > Face ID & Passcode / Touch ID & Passcode).
- If issues persist, try a full restart of the device【17】.
5. CarPlay Issues
CarPlay users have reported problems with audio disruptions, black screens, and trouble connecting to their vehicle’s system.
Solution:
- Disconnect and reconnect your iPhone to the car’s system.
- Restart both your iPhone and the vehicle.
- Ensure both iOS and the car’s infotainment system firmware are updated【17】.
6. Random Reboots and Freezes
Some users experience random reboots or screen freezes, particularly when multitasking or using resource-heavy apps.
Solution:
- Restart the device (press and hold the power and volume buttons simultaneously).
- Free up storage by deleting unused apps and media (Settings > General > iPhone Storage).
- Keep apps and iOS up to date to ensure compatibility and bug fixes【19】.
7. Siri Unresponsiveness
Siri may fail to respond or misinterpret commands more frequently after the iOS 18 update.
Solution:
- Restart your iPhone and check your internet connection.
- Reset Siri’s settings and re-enable it (Settings > Siri & Search).
- Ensure you have granted all necessary permissions for Siri to function correctly【17】.
Conclusion
While iOS 18 offers several useful features, it has also introduced some iOS 18 software bugs that can disrupt the user experience. Many issues, such as app crashes, battery drain, and connectivity problems, can be resolved with simple fixes like restarts, software updates, and resetting specific settings. If these issues persist, keeping an eye out for future updates from Apple is crucial, as the company typically releases patches to address widespread bugs.
By staying proactive and applying troubleshooting steps, most users will be able to enjoy the full potential of iOS 18 without significant disruptions【18】【19】.