Apple has officially released the first version of its iOS 18.2 beta for developers with much-awaited Artificial Intelligence features. The highlights of this iOS update include features like Image Playground, Genmoji, Visual Intelligence, writing tools and integration of ChatGPT with voice assistant Siri.
For the unversed, Apple announced these new AI features at its WWDC 2024 event that took place in June this year. However, unlike past years, Apple did not roll out this software update along with the launch of a new batch of iPhones, in this case, iPhone 16 series.
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Apple rolls out iOS 18.2: What’s New?
The new iOS update comes with an Image Playground feature that allows users to generate cartoonish images using its AI model. It also gives suggestions for costumes, items, or locations based on a conversation in the messages app or even your notes.
Image Wand is another new feature that you will get along with the update. It allows users to turn rough sketches into fully rendered images using Apple Pencil. The new Genmoji feature uses AI to create custom emojis and stores them in the emoji keyboard, allowing users to create emojis of their loved ones using photos.
Apple’s image playground in iOS 18.2
pic.twitter.com/Kjk3LV1OrD
— Elijah Budry (@elijahbudry) October 23, 2024
As for writing, the update to Writing Tools features a new text field that allows users to customize AI-generated writing suggestions based on specific needs. Additionally, the integration of ChatGPT provides users with a more powerful AI-assisted content creation experience.
I installed iOS 18.2 on my phone to access Apple Intelligence, which is available in Canada.
I must admit, I’m impulsive. I’m not sure if this was a wise decision, considering my battery life has been severely affected. 😭
But eh, Siri’s new animation is hot 🥵 pic.twitter.com/YU8WT4ValF
— LP 🇨🇦🏳️🌈 (@LP_FxOff) October 24, 2024
One of the major highlights of the update is ChatGPT integration with Siri. When Siri can’t handle complex tasks, it can now pass them to ChatGPT and present the results, enhancing Siri’s capabilities. However, users must manually grant ChatGPT access for privacy reasons.
iOS 18.2 Eligible Devices
iOS 18.2 will be available exclusively for the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 series, while iOS 18 supports iPhone XS and later models.
How to download iOS 18.2 update?
First of all, you will need to back up your data. On a Mac, connect your iPhone, open Finder, select your device, click “Back Up Now,” then go to “Manage Backups,” right-click the newly created backup, and choose “Archive.” On Windows, follow a similar process using the iTunes app.
Apple now offers a free tier of the Developer Program, allowing you to download any developer beta without a fee. To update your device to iOS 18.2 using the Apple ID linked to it, follow these steps:
- Visit the Apple Developer website, tap the three-dash menu in the top-left, and select “Account.”
- Sign in with your Apple ID
- Review the Apple Developer Agreement, check the required boxes, and click “Submit.”
While this free tier doesn’t provide access to all development tools, it grants access to the iOS 18.2 developer beta. Developers may want to consider upgrading to the paid version for full benefits.
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