Both iOS 18 and macOS Ventura bring significant improvements to their respective platforms. iOS 18 prioritizes customization, gaming, and security on mobile devices, while macOS Ventura focuses on streamlining the user interface and enhancing multitasking and security on desktop computers. The choice between them depends on the user's device and specific needs.
| Attribute | iOS 18 | macOS Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| User Interface Design | Users can customize their Home Screen by placing app icons and widgets to frame the wallpaper or create the ideal layout on each page. App icons and widgets can appear sleeker with a new Dark look. Users can tint them with any color, or have iOS suggest a color that complements the wallpaper. | Refreshed design in System Settings, intended to be easier to navigate. Replaced System Preferences with System Settings. |
| Multitasking Capabilities | Allows users to run multiple apps simultaneously in a more fluid manner. Split-screen and picture-in-picture modes are more versatile. | Introduces Stage Manager for automatic window organization. Works alongside Mission Control and Spaces. |
| App Ecosystem and Availability | Not directly addressed in the provided context. | Updates to apps like Mail, Messages, and Safari. |
| Security Features and Privacy | Introduces the Passwords app, a comprehensive password manager. Users can lock apps with Face ID, adding a layer of security. Improved Bluetooth privacy limits the ability of apps to access Bluetooth connections without explicit user permission. Redesigned Privacy and Security settings menu. | Rapid Security Responses (RSR) for faster security fixes. Lockdown Mode for stricter security. Enhanced Gatekeeper. Passkeys for passwordless sign-in. USB-C Accessory Security requiring user approval. Locked Hidden and Recently Deleted Albums in Photos. |
| System Performance and Speed | Includes a Game Mode that minimizes background activity and allocates more resources to the running game. | Generally performs faster than previous versions. Metal 3 improves game visuals. |
| Battery Management | Provides tools to manage battery life, extend battery health, and control data usage. A Charge Limit setting prevents overcharging. Users can also adjust Always On Display settings, turn on Low Data Mode, and optimize Background App Refresh. | Not available |
| Integration with Apple Services | Introduces Apple Intelligence, which draws on your personal context to give you intelligence that's most helpful and relevant for you. | Seamless integration with iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple Pay. |
| Customization Options | Offers deeper customization to the Home Screen and Control Center. Users can rearrange apps and widgets, personalize their Home Screen layout, and customize how controls are laid out. App icons can be tinted with any color. | New wallpaper options, tinting and transparency settings. Customization for Dock and Stage Manager. Interface appearance modifications. |
| Accessibility Features | Includes new accessibility features such as Eye Tracking, Music Haptics, and Vocal Shortcuts. Enhanced VoiceOver and braille support are included. The Magnifier app has been enhanced with a new Reader Mode. | Live Captions, Background Sounds, Voice Control, VoiceOver, and Type to Speak with Live Captions. |
| Software Update Frequency | Began rolling out to compatible devices on September 16, 2024. Apple releases iterative updates that include bug fixes, security updates, and new features. | Software updates released, including Rapid Security Responses. |
| Compatibility with Older Hardware | The final version of iOS that supports the iPhone XS/XS Max and iPhone XR. | Compatible with Macs from 2017 and later. |
| Gaming Performance | Introduces Game Mode, which minimizes background activity and allocates more resources to the running game. It also improves the responsiveness of connected devices such as AirPods and game controllers. | Metal 3 enhances game visuals and performance. |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | overall: Not available, performance: Not available | overall: Not available, performance: Generally performs faster than previous versions |