iOS 18 Beta 4 is Out! - What's New?

Summary

In this video, Aaron from Solo Tech reviews the newly released iOS 18 beta 4, highlighting its visual and feature updates, including a modem update for improved connectivity. He notes the availability of RCS messaging in more countries and the introduction of an iCloud section in settings. Aaron also discusses minor UI tweaks, such as changes to the generative playground icon and the Stocks app, as well as enhancements to CarPlay and the Music player. He mentions bug fixes and performance improvements, while also pointing out remaining issues like the wallpaper dimming bug. Aaron suggests that users on beta 3 should upgrade, but those waiting might prefer to wait for the public beta 2 for stability.

Takeaways

• 📱 iOS 18 beta 4 has been released to developers, with an expected public beta 2 to follow shortly.
• 📲 The update size for iOS 18 beta 4 is 1.38 GB on the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
• 🔄 The update includes visual and feature changes, as well as a modem update to potentially resolve connectivity issues.
• 🤖 Apple intelligence is not yet active but is expected to be available in an upcoming beta.
• 🎨 The generative playground app has been updated with a new icon design.
• 📩 RCS messaging has been enabled in more countries with this beta update.
• 🔄 An iCloud section has been added within the settings app, featuring an animated subscriber icon.
• 📚 Changes to the App Library include a new appearance for hidden apps.
• 📊 A minor update to the Stocks app icon has been made, with less noticeable vertical stripes.
• 🚗 For Apple CarPlay users, new wallpapers and an updated music player interface are included.
• ⌚ Control Center has been updated with new icons for the alarm and stopwatch, and a Bluetooth power toggle that is not yet functional.
• 🎉 Emoji picker has been updated to allow for the addition of frequently used stickers in a row.
• 🔧 Notable bug fixes include smoother animations, improved photo zoom quality, and fixes for screen time and widgets.
• 🔒 Security updates are expected in future releases, with performance improvements noted in the current beta.
• 📉 A persistent wallpaper dimming bug is still present in this beta version.
• 📈 Initial benchmarks for iOS 18 beta 4 show improved single-core and multicore performance compared to previous betas.

Q & A

What is the size of the iOS 18 beta 4 update for Aaron's iPhone 15 Pro Max?

The iOS 18 beta 4 update came in at 1.38 GB on Aaron's iPhone 15 Pro Max.

What is the build number of the iOS 18 beta 4 update?

The build number for the iOS 18 beta 4 update is 22A5316j.

Does the iOS 18 beta 4 update include a modem update?

Yes, the iOS 18 beta 4 update includes a modem update, which may resolve connectivity issues.

Is Apple Intelligence active in iOS 18 beta 4?

No, Apple Intelligence is not active in iOS 18 beta 4, but it is expected to be available in an upcoming beta.

What visual change has been made to the generative playground icon in iOS 18 beta 4?

The generative playground icon has been updated with a new design for the little dog in the icon.

In which countries has RCS messaging been enabled in iOS 18 beta 4?

RCS messaging has been enabled in more countries including the United Kingdom, the USA, and Canada.

What new feature is added to the Control Center in iOS 18 beta 4?

A new icon for a Bluetooth power toggle has been added to the Control Center in iOS 18 beta 4, although it doesn't function yet.

What issue with the Stocks app icon has been addressed in iOS 18 beta 4?

The Stocks app icon has been updated with a refined design, making the vertical stripes less noticeable.

What animation update has been made for the Action button on the iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max in iOS 18 beta 4?

A new animation has been added when using the Action button to turn on the flashlight in iOS 18 beta 4.

What changes have been made to the Emoji picker in iOS 18 beta 4?

In iOS 18 beta 4, users can now add their frequently used stickers in a row, allowing for sending them concurrently in a single text.

What notable bug fixes are mentioned in the iOS 18 beta 4 update?

Notable bug fixes in iOS 18 beta 4 include smoother animations, improved photo zoom quality, better customization experience, fixed screen time issues, and resolved audio muting during game switching.