Apple has released iOS 18.2, the AI-powered version of its latest mobile operating system, to public beta users. This update includes new features such as an AI emoji generator app called Genmoji, Image Playground AI image app, ChatGPT and Siri integration, and visual search using the iPhone 16 camera. Previously, these features were only available to developers.
Consumers can now line up to try out new AI features, but there are some caveats. Some of them require you to join a waiting list to gain access.
The AI features and tools included in the new iPhone 16 and other supported devices are collectively known as Apple Intelligence, which can also be cleverly shortened to “AI.” Large-scale language model-driven technology promises users smarter Siri, app-wide writing and proofreading assistance, image generation capabilities, and more. Third-party developers will also be able to leverage the power of Apple Intelligence in their own apps. If widely adopted, this could end up being Apple Intelligence's most useful product.
For example, users can ask Siri to display information within an app or take actions on what they see on screen. At Apple's developer conference in June, the company announced that its AI technology will first be used in specific categories of apps such as books, browsers, cameras, document readers, file management, journals, email, photos, presentations, spreadsheets, and whiteboards. He said it will be available. word processor.
In the meantime, users will probably want to try out features related to ChatGPT and image creation.
Image Playground introduces a standalone image generation app that allows you to create new images via prompts. Genmoji offers a similar system for creating custom emojis. You can also use Image Wand to turn rough sketches in your notes into AI-generated images.
Siri allows users to enable the new ChatGPT extension, which provides a set of enhanced features for Apple's virtual assistant. For example, you can ask ChatGPT to help you compose text, answer questions, create images, and more. If you're signed in, you can also save your request history. Paid subscribers also get access to ChatGPT's advanced features that their membership provides. This is a mutually beneficial deal for the companies, with ChatGPT gaining massive exposure through the iPhone installed base and Apple getting a smarter Siri.
iPhone 16 users can also press a new camera control button to launch Visual Intelligence, a way to search and identify real-world objects and locations through the camera lens.
Unfortunately for those who have been itching to try Apple Intelligence, some features still require a waiting list. First you need to enable Apple Intelligence (as it's not enabled by default). Users must then sign up for other image creation features before access is granted. Apple hasn't said how long users will have to wait for access, but it could take days or even weeks during this beta period.
Part of the reason for this is due to concerns about the safety of AI, such as users already using Genmoji to design NSFW emojis, and the need for Apple to safely extend that functionality to users. It also gives you time.
Ahead of the release of iOS 18.2, Apple launched AI features in iOS 18.1 such as writing tools and notification summaries powered by Apple Intelligence, and also debuted a new look for Siri that lights up the edges of the screen.
Alongside the iOS 18.2 beta, Apple also released the first public betas of iPadOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2, and tvS 18.2.