Apple has released the Release Candidate (RC) version of iOS 18.2, marking a significant update to the iPhone’s operating system. This version introduces several new features, improvements, and enhancements aimed at boosting user experience. The update comes amid ongoing beta testing and is expected to be available for the general public soon.
Key features in iOS 18.2 RC
The iOS 18.2 RC includes multiple enhancements under Apple’s new “Apple Intelligence” category, particularly benefiting iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models. Among the most notable features are:
- Image playground: A new app allowing users to create playful images by selecting styles such as Animation, Illustration, or Sketch. This feature is integrated within Messages and other apps, and images sync via iCloud.
- Genmoji: Users can now create custom emojis using prompts like “monkey with pink hat,” which also sync across devices through iCloud.
- Image wand: The Notes app can turn rough sketches into finished images, interpreting sketches or empty spaces based on surrounding context.
- ChatGPT integration: Users can access ChatGPT through Siri or the Writing Tools, enhancing response quality and allowing anonymous usage without account requirements.
- Create images expansion: Users can generate images by highlighting text in the Notes app, expanding the creative capabilities of Apple Intelligence features.
Additional updates include an all-new Mail app that categorizes incoming emails into intelligent folders, offering insights such as Promotions and Transactions, alongside a digest view summarizing messages from a single sender.
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The update also allows users to change default apps for Messages and Phone. A new Volume Limit feature enables users to restrict the maximum volume output of their iPhone speakers, while enhancements to the Find My app facilitate sharing an AirTag’s location with trusted individuals like airlines. Moreover, video interactions in the Photos app have been refined for a smoother experience.
Improvements to functionality and UX
The iOS 18.2 RC comes packed with various improvements across apps and settings designed to optimize functionality further. For instance, the redesigned Mail app utilizes on-device algorithms to categorize emails effectively. Users now have access to new features for managing their inboxes, including the digest view that collates relevant communications and allows users to prioritize important messages.
The Photos app has received multiple enhancements such as smoother video scrubbing and improved navigation within Collections views. Users can now manage their Recently Viewed albums and share their Favorites more efficiently. Furthermore, Safari introduces new personalization options with customizable background images and improved import/export functionalities that enhance browsing consistency.
One of the standout enhancements is found within the Voice Memos app, which now supports layered recording, allowing musicians to add vocals over existing track projects. This new capability is particularly beneficial for users who wish to refine their production process directly from their devices.
