iOS 18.2 brings the “rest” of the Apple Intelligence features promised in June, initially available only in English. In addition to AI (limited to a few devices), there are also other new features coming to the system.
Check out what you’ll gain by installing iOS 18.2 on your iPhone.
Apple Intelligence: More Powerful and Interactive
New features focused on creativity, productivity, and interaction through the use of artificial intelligence. Here are the highlights:
*️⃣ Image Playground
One of the highlights of iOS 18.2 is Image Playground, an app that allows you to create stylized images based on prompts or photos of yourself and friends.
Integrated with the Messages app, this feature makes it easy to create personalized illustrations, adding an artistic touch to your conversations.
*️⃣ Image Wand
Image Wand is a tool integrated with the Notes app, allowing you to easily add images to your texts. If you’re using an iPad with the Apple Pencil, you can sketch a drawing, and Image Wand will turn it into a more refined, professional version.
*️⃣ Genmoji
With Genmoji, you can create personalized emojis, similar to Image Playground but on a smaller scale. These custom emojis can be viewed by those using iOS 18.1 but can only be created on iOS 18.2. For users with earlier versions, they’ll appear as static images.
*️⃣ Siri Integrated with ChatGPT
Siri received a significant upgrade in iOS 18.2 with integration into ChatGPT.
Now, you can allow Siri to send your requests to ChatGPT, resulting in more detailed and complete responses.
This integration is optional and configurable, allowing you to decide whether to be asked every time Siri interacts with ChatGPT.
Additionally, ChatGPT can generate texts and images and even answer questions about photos you’re viewing.
*️⃣ Enhanced Writing Tools
The Rewrite Writing Tools feature has been improved, allowing for even greater customization.
Now, in addition to choosing from predefined styles, you can describe the tone or form you want the text to take, such as making a message more dynamic or transforming simple text into something more poetic.
*️⃣ More Countries
iOS 18.2 expands Apple Intelligence language support for English in more regions, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.
This means that, in addition to the United States, users in other English-speaking regions can utilize all Apple intelligence features without needing to change language settings.
Exclusive Features for iPhone 16
iOS 18.2 introduces significant improvements for iPhone 16 users, leveraging new hardware components like the Camera Control button.
– Visual Intelligence
iOS 18.2 brings the Visual Intelligence feature, which allows you to identify objects and locations around you using your iPhone’s camera.
For example, you can point your iPhone at a restaurant and receive information like reviews and operating hours.
You can also copy texts, perform Google searches, and even ask ChatGPT questions about what you’re seeing.
– Adjustments to the Camera Control Button
The Camera Control button now allows you to:
- Adjust double-click speed (Standard, Slow, or Slower options).
- Activate the camera while the screen is off.
- Lock exposure and focus (AE/AF Lock) with a light press of the button.
– Multitrack Voice Recording
The Voice Recorder app now allows you to overlay two audio tracks and edit each one separately.
This is especially useful for users who use the app for more complex recordings, such as interviews or podcasts.
Apple Arcade Improvements
Apple Arcade also received some improvements in iOS 18.2.
Now, there’s a new filter option in the “All Games” section, making it easier to find your favorite games.
Additionally, you can disable game previews for a more focused navigation experience.
Improved Categorization in the Mail App
The Mail app has been redesigned to include automatic email categorization. Messages are now organized into categories like important emails, promotions, transactions, and newsletters.
This makes navigating your inbox easier, ensuring you quickly find what you need.
Additionally, the app now features an enhanced interface with larger contact and business photos, and messages from the same sender are grouped together.
However, for now, this new feature is only available when the system language is set to English.
Deleting Native Apps
Following European Union regulations, iOS 18.2 allows users in the region to delete native Apple apps like Safari, Messages, Camera, Photos, and even the App Store.
Default App Management
The iOS 18.2 settings now include a new option called Default Apps.
This feature allows users to set their preferred apps for functions like email, calls, web browsing, keyboards, and more.
This feature was previously available only for users in the European Union, but Apple has now made it accessible worldwide.
Volume Limiter
iOS 18.2 introduces a new feature to set a maximum volume limit on the iPhone.
Located in the Sound & Haptics section, this feature allows you to control the maximum volume for music, movies, and other types of media played on the device. However, it doesn’t affect call or alarm volumes.
More Options in the Control Center
The Control Center now includes a quick-access option for the “Type to Siri” feature, making text-based communication with Siri easier.
This Apple Intelligence feature allows you to access Siri with two quick taps on the screen’s bottom edge and communicate via text. It’s particularly useful in situations where speaking out loud isn’t an option or isn’t preferred.
Additionally, the Satellite control has been removed, and the Adaptive Audio icon has been updated with a new design.
Safari Improvements
The Safari browser now includes a dedicated data and history management section, along with new options for importing and exporting data.
This makes managing browser information more intuitive and customizable.
As we’ve mentioned before, Safari now displays download progress on the lock screen for active file downloads.
Favorites in Podcasts App
The Podcasts app now lets you add categories to your favorites, making it easier to access your preferred topics and simplifying navigation.
Sleep Apnea Detection in Canada
Canadian users with a compatible Apple Watch can now receive notifications for sleep apnea.
Find My App
You can now share the location of lost items with trusted people or companies, like airlines.
This feature uses temporary links, ensuring user privacy.
watchOS 11.2
The Apple Watch now features a pause button in the Camera Remote app, making it easier to record videos directly from your watch.
How to Update
iOS 18.2 will be available in System Settings for all devices compatible with iOS 18, under General > Software Update.
Before updating, it’s a good idea to back up your data to avoid losing important information in case of unexpected issues.
