When Apple first introduced Image Playground in June as part of its Apple Intelligence suite, it announced three style options for generating images: animation, illustration, and sketch. However, the latest beta versions of iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2 only include animation and illustration, without any mention of sketches.
One less option for Image Playground
While this was thought to be a power-on delay that would be addressed in a later beta of iOS 18.2, the app description for Image Playground has now been updated, removing any mention “Sketch” style. She originally described the latter as creating highly detailed classical drawings.
The highly detailed and academic Sketch style produces beautiful drawings on stark backgrounds.
From now on, only the animation and illustration remain:
- The animation offers a whimsical 3D cartoon style with expressive characters and immersive environments.
- The artwork features bold outlines, simplified shapes and bright colors, providing playful and inspiring compositions.
The animation style offers a whimsical 3D cartoon look with expressive characters and cinematic environments. The illustration style is defined by strong outlines, simple shapes and bright colors, offering inspiring and playful compositions.
Interestingly, a reference to “three unique styles” still appears in the app’s top-level description, which gives some hope. Sketch is also always mentioned on the Web page Apple Intelligence features, but it may be removed soon.
It’s unclear why Apple decided to remove the drawing option from Image Playground or if other styles will be introduced later. For now, Image Playground on iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2 will only offer animation and illustration styles. These updates should be launched publicly in early December, as the company confirmed during the presentation of the M4 Macs.
