As we eagerly anticipate the first steps of Apple Intelligence, Apple has entered the iOS 18.2 beta phase, while the iOS 18.1 release is expected to arrive later this month. Although the exact launch date remains unconfirmed, speculation points to October 28 as the day when Apple Intelligence may debut on select iPhones. Additionally, it’s rumored that the stable version of iOS 18.2 will be available to all users by December this year.
The iOS 18.2 developer beta, launched on Wednesday, introduces exciting features like Genmoji (emoji creation), Image Playground (AI-generated images), enhanced AI writing tools, Siri-ChatGPT integration, and Visual Intelligence for camera-based searches—exclusive to iPhone 16 models. These updates mark a significant step in expanding AI-powered features to more regions. Let’s explore the highlights of Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.2.
iOS 18.2 Beta: Apple Intelligence Features
Siri-ChatGPT Integration:
Siri can now pass requests to ChatGPT, an optional feature that doesn’t require an account. Users can enable Siri to send queries to ChatGPT automatically, providing detailed information, generating images, and creating text. It also allows for on-screen responses, making it easier to ask questions about images directly on your device.
Visual Intelligence:
Exclusively available on iPhone 16, Visual Intelligence helps identify objects and locations through the camera. By long-pressing the Camera Control button, users can access information like restaurant reviews, hours of operation, text copying, and image searches. ChatGPT can also answer questions about objects captured by the camera.
Genmoji:
With Genmoji, users can create their own custom emojis. While users on iOS 18.1 can view Genmojis, the emoji creation feature is exclusive to iOS 18.2. In older versions, Genmojis are displayed as static images.
Enhanced Writing Tools:
The Rewrite Writing Tools now support more styles, allowing users to specify tones, such as creating more dynamic language or converting an email into a poem. This AI-powered tool expands the creative potential of text-based communication.
Image Playground:
This new app enables users to create stylized images based on prompts or photos of friends, which can be integrated directly into Messages.
Image Wand:
A tool for adding images to Notes, Image Wand allows iPad users to sketch rough drawings, which are then polished using Apple Pencil integration.
Language Expansion:
Apple Intelligence features in iOS 18.2 are now available to English speakers in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK, eliminating the need for Canadians to switch to US English to access AI functionalities.
More Features in iOS 18.2 Beta
The iOS 18.2 beta brings more than just AI innovations. Here are some notable updates:
- The Mail app has new built-in categories to organize emails into sections like important messages, deals, newsletters, and transactions. Additionally, the app features larger contact images and consolidates emails from single senders into a unified view.
- Control Center has been updated with a Type to Siri quick access option, simplifying Siri interactions. The Satellite Connectivity Control has been removed, and the Adaptive Audio icon has been redesigned to streamline the user experience.
- In the Sound and Haptics section of the Settings app, a new Volume Limit option lets users set a maximum volume for audio playback. This setting applies to songs, movies, and media but excludes phone calls, FaceTime calls, and alarms.
