Here we go for a new beta phase, with the second wave of Apple Intelligence. Apple has indeed released iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 and macOS 15.2 for developers which includes new tools such as Genmoji, Image Playground and ChatGPT integration in Siri and new writing tools. For iPhone 16 users, Visual Intelligence is accessible from the new camera button, and Apple has expanded the availability of Apple Intelligence to other English-speaking regions beyond the United States.
New features in iOS 18.2
Here is the list of new features in the iOS 18.2 beta:
- Genmoji and Image Playground : iOS 18.2 launches Apple’s image generation features. Genmoji allows users to create custom emoji characters, while Image Playground offers an app for generating images based on instructions. These features integrate with Siri and can take inspiration from your messages and notes.
- ChatGPT integration : Siri now includes ChatGPT integration for certain queries. If Siri can’t answer a question, ChatGPT takes over, offering text or image-based answers, without requiring an additional account.
- Picture Wand : Available in the Notes app on iPad, this feature allows users to draw or highlight text to generate corresponding images.
- Visual Intelligence : Available on iPhone 16, this feature provides real-time information based on what the camera detects, such as restaurant details or information about an object.
- Expanded availability : Apple Intelligence, initially limited to US English, is now available in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom.
- Writing tools : A new option in the writing tools allows more open edits, like adjusting tone or transforming text into different formats, like poems.
- Email : The new organization of the Mail application with intelligent categorization.
Collaboration between Siri and ChatGPT
Siri now works hand-in-hand with ChatGPT when needed, providing rich responses for complex queries. Siri can use ChatGPT to create text and images, all within the native experience, without the need for additional accounts.
The new Mail
Apple also introduced an updated version of the Mail app with built-in categorization functionality. This new feature organizes incoming emails into different sections:
- The “Primary” category contains important emails.
- The Transactions sections include receipts, orders and deliveries.
- The “Updates” section includes newsletters, alerts, and correspondence.
- The “Promotions” category contains special offers and promotions.
Categorization is still in the development phase, so some emails may be misclassified or appear in multiple categories, adjustments are expected in the future.
What’s new in macOS 15.2
Regarding the new features of macOS Sequoia 15.2, it is more restricted, especially for non-American customers.
Here’s what’s included:
- ChatGPT integration for Siri and writing tools
- Image playground to create original images
- Updated writing tools that let you describe your edits
Availability of Apple Intelligence
Although iOS 18.1 will soon be available with Apple Intelligence for US users, the iOS 18.2 beta expands Apple’s AI to other English-speaking markets. Apple plans to support more languages next year, although some regions, like China and the EU, are excluded due to regulatory constraints. France will indeed have to wait until 2025, but without a precise date.
How to install the beta
Developers with devices compatible with Apple Intelligence (iPhone 15 Pro minimum and iPad with Mx chip) can already test the iOS 18.2 beta (build 22C5109p). Public betas are expected in the near future. Apple is obviously waiting for a lot of feedback to refine tools such as Genmoji and Image Playground before their wider deployment.
For those eager to test out these new features, Apple has set up a waitlist for early access to Genmoji, Image Playground, and Image Wand, with notifications sent when they become available.
Go to the settings of your iPhone, iPad or Mac to install the update. Take care to use an Apple ID linked to an account Apple Developer.
