Following the release of iOS 18.1, Apple has launched the third beta of iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2 for developers, focusing on feature updates and user experience improvements across apps like Photos, TV, and Apple Intelligence. Expected to go public in December, the new beta brings both subtle and impactful changes.

What’s New in iOS 18.2 Beta

Photos App Enhancements

The Photos app, which underwent a redesign with iOS 18, now includes a refined video player with thinner borders, addressing user feedback on previous design issues. This update aims to enhance the viewing experience by providing a cleaner interface for video playback.

Upgraded Camera Control Settings

A new “Require Screen On” toggle in Camera Control for iPhone 16 models allows users to limit camera button usage to when the screen is on, enhancing privacy and control. This feature ensures that users have more control over how and when they access their camera.

Redesigned CarPlay Icons

CarPlay’s Climate and Media app icons are receiving a fresh look, set to appear in future CarPlay-enabled vehicles expected by late 2024. This redesign aims to provide a more cohesive and modern interface for users interacting with CarPlay.

Additional Updates

Other updates include:

• A dark-themed AirDrop icon for Dark Mode.
• Improved Precision Finding for AirTags.
• Enhancements to the “Play Sound” function for AirPods and other compatible devices within Apple’s Find My network.

New Features with Apple Intelligence

The latest beta brings Apple’s AI advancements, introducing:

• Genmoji: A custom emoji generator that allows users to create personalized emojis based on text descriptions.
• Image Playground: A feature enabling users to create AI-generated images from prompts, offering both Animation and Illustration styles.
• Siri Integration with ChatGPT: Siri now integrates with ChatGPT, allowing it to provide richer, more detailed responses on various topics.

Compatibility and Release

The third developer beta of iOS 18.2 supports iPhone XS and newer models, although some features like Siri’s ChatGPT integration are limited to newer devices such as the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 series, and select M-series iPads and Macs. A public beta is expected soon, giving more users access to these updates ahead of the December release.

Additional Apple OS Updates

Alongside iOS and iPadOS 18.2, Apple has also released betas for macOS Sequoia 15.2, watchOS 11.2, tvOS 18.2, and HomePod Software 18.2. This comprehensive suite of updates promises enhancements across Apple’s ecosystem by year’s end.

Focus on User Experience

As part of its ongoing commitment to improving user experience, Apple continues to refine its software offerings with each update. Users can expect more intuitive interfaces, enhanced functionality, and integration of advanced AI tools designed to streamline workflows across devices.

Conclusion

The rollout of iOS 18.2 beta 3 signifies Apple’s dedication to enhancing its mobile operating system through innovative features and improvements based on user feedback. As the public release approaches in December, users can look forward to a more powerful and versatile experience on their iPhones and iPads.

With these updates, Apple aims to maintain its competitive edge in the technology landscape while ensuring that its users benefit from the latest advancements in mobile technology and artificial intelligence.