what are the most important SDK changes of iOS 18?

The most important SDK changes in iOS 18 include:

1. UIKit Enhancements:

   • New features in UIKit, including improvements to transitions and animations, tab bars, and a new document launch experience. There are also new ways to integrate both UIKit and SwiftUI in your app. (What’s new in UIKit)

2. Device Management:

   • Changes in device management, such as a special exception for enrolling an MDM on a newly set up device without causing a security delay for the first 3 hours after stolen device protection is enabled. Additionally, installing proprietary in-house apps using a new team identity will require a restart. (What’s new in device management)

3. Privacy Enhancements:

   • Improved transparency and control over access to local network, Bluetooth, and contacts. For example, the contacts prompt is now shown in two stages, providing more control over which contacts are shared. (What’s new in privacy)

4. StoreKit and In-App Purchase:

   • The original API for in-app purchases is deprecated, and developers are encouraged to use StoreKit 2, which offers improvements such as automatic cryptographic validation and support for modern language features like Swift's async/await pattern. (What’s new in StoreKit and In-App Purchase)

5. RealityKit:

   • RealityKit has been updated to support macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, making it easier to build 3D and spatial experiences across these platforms. (Platforms State of the Union)

6. Security Enhancements:

   • Introduction of a new registration API to transition users to passkeys, which are more secure and easier to use than passwords. (Platforms State of the Union)

7. Accessory Setup Kit:

   • A new way to pair accessories in iOS 18, providing a smoother and more intuitive experience with enhanced privacy permissions. (What’s new in privacy)

These changes reflect Apple's ongoing efforts to enhance the development experience, improve app performance, and ensure user privacy and security.