The next update of iOS 18 is already ready for developers. iOS 18.2 beta 1 contains quite a few new features (but they are not for everyone).
iOS 18.2 beta 1 is out – with brilliant new features
Apple has released beta 1 of iOS 18.2. At this time, the feature is only available to developers and to iPhones with Apple Intelligence support. Yet there are quite a few functions that are also interesting for older iPhones. We have already listed the most important functions in this update for you.
Apple Intelligence
There are quite a few new functions under the heading ‘Apple Intelligence’. Unfortunately, they are only available on the iPhone 15 Pro (from € 1,021) and newer. With the exception of Visual Intelligence, which can only be found on the iPhone 16 series (from € 914).
It is still not possible to use the Apple Intelligence functions in the EU. According to Apple, this is due to the EU’s Digital Markets Act. It is not known when Apple Intelligence will become available in the Netherlands and Belgium.
- Image Playground: A new app called Image Playground has been added. This allows you to create your own images with text prompts;
- Image Wand: Allows you to add images in the Notes app based on what you’ve written. On an iPad it is even possible to make a sketch with the Apple Pencil and use Image Wand to make something more beautiful;
- Genmoji: this feature allows you to create your own emojis by giving a description;
- Siri ChatGPT: In beta 1 of iOS 18.2, Siri now supports ChatGPT. This chatbot is more extensive than Siri and can also see what is on the screen of your iPhone. You can then ask questions such as: ‘which building can be seen in the photo?’;
- Visual Intelligence: This feature is only available on the iPhone 16 series. This allows you to point the iPhone camera at an object and press the camera dial. You will then receive more information about the subject;
- Writing Tools: you can now have your text rewritten in more ways. For example, you can now also indicate the tone of the new text.
Apple Arcade
Apple Arcade has undergone a few minor changes in the App Store. There is now a menu on the ‘All games’ tab. You can also disable ‘Game Previews’.
The Mail app has received a major makeover and there are new built-in categories. There are also larger images for contacts and companies.
Dictaphone
The Dictaphone app has a few minor innovations. And it is now possible to have a recording transcribed.
Uninstall apps
In the EU you can uninstall several default apps. These include the App Store, Safari, Messages, Camera and Photos.
Set default apps
The iOS 18.2 beta 1 includes a new menu option for your standard apps. Here you set which app the iPhone should use for e-mail, messages or calling, among other things. You can currently find the function under ‘Settings > Apps > Default Apps’.
Volume limit
In the Settings under ‘Hear and feel’ (‘Sound & Haptics’) it is now possible to set a maximum volume.
Control panel
In Control Center, there is now a new button to type something for Siri.
Safari
A new item has been added in Safari’s settings. Here you can import and export browser data. You will also now find the option to clear history and website data.
Podcast
Categories can now be set as favorites in the Podcast app.
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