Apple has recently released the first developer beta for iOS 18.2, and it’s packed with exciting new features and changes for iPhone users. This update brings significant advancements in Apple Intelligence, a redesigned Mail app, and a host of other improvements. Let’s delve into the details.
Availability and Installation
Currently, iOS 18.2 beta 1 is exclusively available for registered developers with compatible iPhone models. These include the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the entire iPhone 16 lineup. If you meet these criteria, you can install the update by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update. The build number for this beta version is 22C5109p.
Apple Intelligence Takes Center Stage
iOS 18.2 introduces a wave of new Apple Intelligence features designed to enhance user experience and productivity.
- Image Playground: This new app allows you to effortlessly create unique images by simply typing a description. Choose from two initial styles, Animation and Illustration, with a Sketch style expected in a future update. Image Playground will also be integrated into other apps like Messages and Mail.
- Genmoji: This innovative feature takes emoji customization to the next level. Generate personalized emojis based on text descriptions or even create Genmoji representations of your friends and family using their photos. These custom emojis can be used in messages, shared as stickers, or added as reactions in Tapbacks.
- ChatGPT Integration: Siri now leverages the power of ChatGPT to provide more comprehensive and informative responses. This integration enhances Siri’s ability to answer general knowledge questions and understand images and documents. You have the option to sign in to your ChatGPT account within the Settings app and can disable the prompt that appears when Siri utilizes ChatGPT.
- Writing Tools Enhancements: ChatGPT is also integrated with Writing Tools, offering a “Compose” option to generate text related to your chosen topics. Additionally, you can utilize ChatGPT’s image tools to create visuals in various styles. iOS 18.2 also introduces a “describe your change” feature, allowing for more specific text modifications using Apple Intelligence.
- Visual Intelligence (iPhone 16): This new feature, activated by long-pressing the camera control, provides contextual information about the objects around you. Capture an image and utilize visual intelligence to search for similar images on Google or send it to ChatGPT for further analysis. You can also identify dog breeds, access restaurant reviews and hours, or even add events to your calendar directly from flyers.
- Image Wand in Notes: Transform rough sketches into refined images within the Notes app. The Image Wand feature can even generate images based on the context of the surrounding content.
- Expanded Language Support: Apple Intelligence is now available in more regions, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.
Mail App Gets a Major Overhaul
iOS 18.2 brings a significant redesign to the Mail app, focusing on enhanced organization and user experience.
- On-Device Categorization: The Mail app now automatically sorts your emails into four categories: Primary (personal and time-sensitive), Transactions (confirmations and receipts), Updates (news and social media notifications), and Promotions (marketing emails and coupons).
- Interface Improvements: Enjoy larger contact pictures, a new digest view that consolidates emails from specific businesses, and clearer visual separation between new and old emails.
Default Apps and EU-Specific Changes
iOS 18.2 allows users worldwide to set default apps for Messaging and Calling. In the US, this functionality extends to Email, Call Filtering, Browser App, Passwords & Codes, Keyboards.
For users in the European Union, iOS 18.2 implements changes to the browser choice screen and allows for the deletion of previously non-removable apps like App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos, and Safari. Developers can now also develop and test EU-specific features globally.
Additional Enhancements
- Voice Memos Upgrade (iPhone 16 Pro): Layer multiple audio tracks and separate them after recording.
- Volume Limit: Set a maximum volume limit for the iPhone speaker, excluding phone calls, FaceTime calls, emergency alerts, ringtones, alarms, system sounds, and Find My sounds.
- Safari Import/Export: Import or export browsing history and website data in Safari settings.
- Podcasts App: Mark specific podcast categories as favorites.
- App Store: Disable “Game Previews” in the Apple Arcade interface.
- Control Center Widget: A new “Type to Siri” widget has been added.
- Adaptive App Icons: App icons in the Settings app and Share Sheet now match your chosen Home Screen theme.
iOS 18.2 beta 1 is brimming with new features and refinements that promise to enhance the iPhone experience. As we await the public release, it’s clear that Apple continues to innovate and refine its mobile operating system.