iOS 18.2 Beta 2 is Out! - What's New? (Apple Intelligence)

Summary

Apple has released iOS 18.2 Beta 2, offering significant updates, including improved connectivity, UI changes, and a redesigned Mail app with better organization. Key features include Type to Siri, enhanced Apple Intelligence with ChatGPT integration, and better control over camera settings for iPhone 16 models. The Find My app introduces new sharing options for lost items, and the Fitness app now supports more actions in shortcuts. Battery life and performance have been optimized, and system stability is improved. While the update is smooth, third-party app stores are restricted in the U.S. iOS 18.2 Beta 2 is recommended for developers and testers, with public release expected soon.

Takeaways

• 😀 iOS 18.2 Beta 2 is now available for developers, with public beta 1 expected soon.
• 😀 The update is compatible with all iOS 18-supported devices, including the iPhone SE2, iPhone 11, iPhone 16 Pro, and Pro Max.
• 😀 The update includes a new modem update aimed at improving connectivity.
• 😀 New icons have been added to settings, with dark and light modes now reflecting across the system and home screen.
• 😀 The Mail app has been revamped with a new divided inbox layout, though summarizations from Apple intelligence are not included in this beta.
• 😀 A new feature in the Control Center allows users to add 'Type to Siri,' but this is only available on devices supporting Apple intelligence.
• 😀 iOS 18.2 Beta 2 integrates ChatGPT features, allowing users to access their account information, set limits, and subscribe to ChatGPT Plus directly from the settings.
• 😀 Gen Emoji now includes the ability to create personalized emojis directly within messages and provides information on how they were made.
• 😀 A new 'Find My' feature allows users to share the location of lost items with airlines or trusted individuals to help locate them.
• 😀 iOS 18.2 Beta 2 introduces new camera control features, including clean preview and autofocus lock for devices with iPhone 16 models.
• 😀 A new accessibility option allows users to adjust the double-click speed for the camera button, along with other minor tweaks in features like Fitness shortcuts and Notes image creation.

Q & A

What devices are supported by iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

iOS 18.2 Beta 2 supports all devices that are compatible with iOS 18, ranging from the iPhone SE2 to the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

How large is the iOS 18.2 Beta 2 update for different devices?

The update size varies depending on the device. For an iPhone 16 Pro Max, the update is about 1.38 GB, whereas for older devices, it’s around 7 GB.

What major update is included with iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

A major update in iOS 18.2 Beta 2 is a new modem update designed to improve overall connectivity.

How has the UI in Settings changed in iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

The Settings app now features new icons with borders. The icons in dark mode on the home screen persist throughout the system, including within Settings.

What changes have been made to the Mail app in iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

The Mail app now has divided inboxes with categories such as Primary, Promotions, Updates, and Transactions, although advanced summarization features are not yet available.

What new Siri feature is introduced in iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

The update introduces 'Type to Siri' in the Control Center, available on devices supporting Apple Intelligence, while older devices will just show a keyboard icon.

How has the Gen Emoji feature been improved in iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

The Gen Emoji feature is now faster and less likely to overheat the phone. Users can press and hold on an emoji to see what was used to create it.

What is the new feature in Find My for tracking lost items?

In iOS 18.2 Beta 2, Find My now allows users to share the location of lost items with trusted contacts or airlines to assist in locating them.

What new camera options are available on iPhone 16 models with iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

iPhone 16 models now feature new camera controls such as Clean Preview and Auto Exposure & Autofocus Lock.

Are there any issues with third-party app stores in iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

Yes, third-party app stores, such as AltStore, are currently not working in the U.S. with iOS 18.2 Beta 2.

What improvements have been made to battery life in iOS 18.2 Beta 2?

Battery life in iOS 18.2 Beta 2 seems to have improved compared to Beta 1, with the iPhone 16 Pro Max showing better performance after extended use.

What’s the expected release timeline for iOS 18.2 Beta 3 and the final release?

iOS 18.2 Beta 3 could be released as soon as next week, with the final public release expected around December 2nd.