(We explore the exciting improvements and new features of the latest iOS 18.2 version.)
The beta version of iOS 18.2 has arrived, and once again, it seems that Apple has outdone itself. Currently available only on the latest devices that support Apple Intelligence (the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16), this new update revolutionizes the way we interact with our devices thanks to advanced features like Genmoji, the integration of ChatGPT, new image creation tools, and significant improvements in essential apps. Let's take a closer look.
Genmoji: personalization to a new level
One of the most striking innovations in iOS 18.2 is Genmoji. This feature allows us to create customized emojis from textual descriptions anywhere in the system that accesses the keyboard. We can use these Genmoji in messages, as stickers, or for quick reactions, and they will be saved in our recent emojis, so we can use them again whenever we want.
ChatGPT in Siri: the future of interaction
iOS 18.2 brings us the integration of ChatGPT with Siri. This combination elevates the capabilities of our favorite virtual assistant to a new level, and it might change it forever.
Now we can ask Siri all kinds of complex questions, and if necessary, ChatGPT takes over and offers us more complete and detailed answers. It's simply impressive to have ChatGPT's capabilities, including image generation with DALL-E and text creation, accessible through a simple command to Siri.
Image Playground and Image Wand: new tools for creativity
iOS 18.2 introduces two essential new tools for creativity lovers: Image Playground and Image Wand.
Image Playground allows us to create beautiful images (currently available only in the form of an animation or illustration) from textual descriptions, photos of people or objects, or even by combining suggestions or ideas (like "summer", "superhero", "stadium"…). We can do this from its application or directly in Messages and Mail.
Image Wand, available in the Notes app, transforms our quick hand-drawn sketches into complete and detailed images using the surrounding visual context. A tool that helps our notes look much more professional and beautiful.
Productivity improvements: Mail and Writing Tools
The Mail app has been notably improved. It now includes a smart categorization system that automatically organizes emails into four groups: Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions. Additionally, a new summary view groups all emails from the same source, and images of contacts and businesses are displayed in larger sizes.
Similarly, both in the Mail app and elsewhere in the system, iOS 18.2 brings an improvement in Writing Tools, making them more precise and adaptive. This improvement allows us to specify exactly how we want to modify a text: from adding specific words to changes in the structure of the same, and even transforming the text into a completely different format, like a poem.
Visual Intelligence
Users of the iPhone 16 with the new beta of iOS 18.2 will be able to enjoy the new Visual Intelligence feature. This tool, activated from the Camera Control, allows us to identify objects and places in real time, providing us with useful information such as reviews and schedules simply by pointing the camera at them.
More Improvements and Changes in iOS 18.2
In addition to these great new features of iOS 18.2, there are numerous minor improvements and changes:
Default Applications: within Apps, in Settings, we now have the freedom to choose our preferred applications for services such as email, messaging, web browsers, and calls, among others.
Podcasts App: Now you can mark categories as favorites to receive more personalized recommendations.
Voice Notes: New editing features allow superimposing two tracks and editing mixes, ideal for content creators.
Volume Control: A volume limit for multimedia content is introduced, protecting hearing without affecting calls or alarms.
Safari: New options for importing and exporting browsing data, improving privacy control.
Siri in Control Center: You can add an option to write to Siri directly from the Control Center, making it easier to use without having to speak.
Shortcuts App: Incorporates the "Generate Image" function using Apple Intelligence, expanding automation capabilities.
App Store: Possibility to disable game previews in Apple Arcade, offering a cleaner user experience.
Health: Sleep apnea notifications now available in Canada, improving health monitoring during sleep.
With iOS 18.2, Tim Cook's philosophy of "Not first, but best" is fulfilled. This update truly marks a before and after in the integration of artificial intelligence in the Apple ecosystem, greatly enhancing user-device interaction. Every detail is designed to improve our experience as users, making it more personal, efficient, and fun. And although it is still in beta phase, it will be officially available before the end of the year for everyone to enjoy.
On Hanaringo | How to customize the Photos app in iOS 18