iOS 18.3 - It Starts Now!

Summary

In this Apple Weekly update, Brandon covers the latest on iOS 18.2 and the iOS 18.3 beta, discussing new features like the Apple Intelligence model updates, camera controls, and notification summaries. He also dives into the delay of CarPlay 2.0 and the potential of iOS 19 supporting all older devices. The video highlights Apple’s fix for the controversial Magic Mouse design, the upcoming iPhone SE4 (possibly rebranded as iPhone 16e), and the release of the M4 MacBook Air. Additionally, Brandon shares an interesting AirTag story involving a Chicago delivery driver, and gives recommendations for Apple TV+ shows.

Takeaways

• 😀 iOS 18.3 Beta 1 is a minor update, featuring a new camera control icon and tweaks to notification summaries.
• 😀 Apple Intelligence updates include improvements to notification summaries, addressing concerns over their accuracy.
• 😀 The performance benchmarks in iOS 18.3 Beta 1 show better single-core and multi-core scores compared to iOS 18.2.
• 😀 Battery life on iOS 18.3 Beta 1 is reportedly worse than iOS 18.2, though this is expected in the first beta release.
• 😀 CarPlay 2.0, announced for 2024, faces delays, with automakers like Porsche backing out of its launch for now.
• 😀 Apple’s driver’s license feature is expanding to seven more U.S. states, with growing TSA acceptance.
• 😀 The iPhone SE 4 may be rebranded as the iPhone 16e, aligning with a design similar to the iPhone 14 and a slightly higher price point.
• 😀 Apple TV+ is offering a free weekend from January 3-5, 2025, with full access to its catalog for all users.
• 😀 Popular Apple TV+ shows such as *Severance*, *Shrinking*, and *Silo* are recommended for new subscribers during the free weekend.
• 😀 The Magic Mouse may receive a redesign with touch, voice controls, and improved ergonomics, including a relocated USB-C port.
• 😀 AirTag technology played a key role in solving a theft case, where a stolen bike was tracked down within 35 minutes using its location data.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the latest update on iOS 18.3 Beta 1?

The main focus of iOS 18.3 Beta 1 is a minor update with new features in accessibility settings, including a new glyph icon for camera control. Additionally, Apple has made improvements to the Apple Intelligence model, particularly for notification summaries, which may address past complaints about misleading notifications.

What improvements were made to the Apple Intelligence model in iOS 18.3 Beta 1?

The updates to Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.3 Beta 1 include tweaks to the notification summaries feature. These changes aim to improve accuracy, particularly when summarizing news notifications, to avoid misleading or incomplete information.

What is CarPlay 2.0, and why hasn't it been released yet?

CarPlay 2.0 is the next generation of Apple's in-car software, promising new features and a better user experience. However, it hasn't been released yet because car manufacturers, like Porsche and Aston Martin, have delayed its implementation. While Apple may have the software ready, the rollout depends on automakers and regulatory approvals.

What are the latest updates regarding Apple's driver’s license feature?

Apple's driver’s license feature, available through the Wallet app, is expanding to seven more states, including Montana, West Virginia, and Kentucky. This feature allows users to store their state ID or driver's license on their iPhone for easy access, including for TSA checkpoints.

What is the rumor about the naming of the iPhone SE4 in 2025?

There is speculation that the iPhone SE4 may not be called the iPhone SE4, but rather the iPhone 16e. This new name would align with a design similar to the iPhone 14, featuring an OLED display and an action button, and could also reflect a higher price point compared to previous SE models.

How might the iPhone 16e differ from previous iPhone SE models?

The iPhone 16e is rumored to feature a more premium design similar to the iPhone 14, including an OLED display and an action button, rather than the traditional design seen in previous SE models. It is also expected to be priced higher, aiming for a more modern and up-to-date feel.

What changes are expected in the new Magic Mouse design?

The new Magic Mouse may address the long-standing complaint about the location of the charging port. Additionally, it could introduce features like voice controls and hand gestures, making it more ergonomic and functional, especially with modern workflows that incorporate AI and dictation.

What happened in the AirTag story featured in this video?

In the featured AirTag story, a 20-year-old delivery driver in Chicago was attacked by two men who stole his electric bike and headphones. The bike had an AirTag attached to it, allowing the police to track the suspects down in just 35 minutes using the AirTag's location data and CTA surveillance footage.

What new features are expected in the iPhone 17?

Rumors suggest that the iPhone 17 will feature a higher refresh rate than 60Hz, potentially up to 120Hz. There is also speculation that the iPhone 17 Plus could be replaced by an 'iPhone 17 Air,' though details are still unclear.

What is the significance of Tim Cook's personal donation to Donald Trump's inauguration fund?

Tim Cook's personal donation of $1 million to Donald Trump's inauguration fund has garnered attention, especially since it is a private donation rather than one from Apple as a company. This move is seen as a gesture of unity, though it has sparked some interest due to the political implications.