After customers are still waiting for the release of iOS 18.1, Apple this week unveiled the first beta version of iOS 18.2, which introduces several new Apple Intelligence features, which can be described as the second wave. Among the new features, in addition to Genmoji and Image Playground, Siri is now integrated with ChatGPT, allowing users to request more detailed information about what is displayed on the screen.
Siri gets help
With the integration of ChatGPT, Siri now uses the OpenAI platform to answer complex questions. For example, if you’re viewing a photo or video on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you can ask Siri, “Where is this?” » or “what is this monument called?” » Siri will then take a screenshot, ask for your permission, then send it to ChatGPT, which can interpret the context and provide responses. Without it, Siri remains very basic.
This feature is particularly interesting for users who do not have an iPhone 16, the only device currently equipped with Apple Visual Intelligence. With this feature, users can tap the camera control to get real-time feedback on what they are seeing. This technology combines Apple Intelligence, ChatGPT and Google Search to provide the same type of answers. However, you need a paid account with OpenAI to use all the capabilities.
Of course, this is all just for US users and people living in an English-speaking country. With iOS 18.2, Apple has effectively expanded the availability of its AI. For Europe and France in particular, the firm only gave an approximate date: 2025.
Other new features of iOS 18.2
As seen previously, iOS 18.2 also introduces new features like “Image Playground”, “Genmoji” and a revised version of the Mail app that intelligently sorts your emails. We also note a new settings screen for default apps or the possibility of reporting inappropriate images in Messages.
Beta availability
Initially, the beta is available for Apple Intelligence-enabled devices, including iPhone 15 Pro and M1 or newer iPads. A wider release is planned by December. The final version is expected shortly before Christmas.
