What to know

  • Apple has released the first public beta versions of iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2, featuring new AI-powered capabilities called Apple Intelligence.
  • The update introduces Image Playground for AI image generation, Genmoji for custom emoji creation, and ChatGPT integration with Siri, though some features require joining a waitlist.
  • The software updates are expected to launch publicly in early December, with Apple Intelligence features requiring newer devices like iPhone 15 Pro or devices with M-series chips.

Apple has unveiled its latest public beta software releases, giving users an early peek at groundbreaking AI features that will transform how you interact with your devices. The company has rolled out the first public beta versions of iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2, packed with innovative artificial intelligence capabilities.

The star of the show is the expanded Apple Intelligence suite, which brings cutting-edge AI features to your fingertips. You’ll now be able to generate images using Image Playground, create personalized emojis with Genmoji, and get enhanced responses from Siri through ChatGPT integration. However, you’ll need to hop on a waitlist to access some of these exciting features.

Writing tools have received a significant upgrade in this release. You can now customize your text beyond the basic friendly and professional tones – want to turn your email into a poem? The AI-powered writing assistant has got you covered. The system will also help you add more action words or completely transform your writing style based on your preferences.

Apple has expanded its language support, bringing localized English to users in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. This update ensures a more personalized experience for English speakers worldwide.

The new features aren’t limited to AI capabilities. You’ll find practical improvements like a revamped Mail app with smart categorization, the ability to change default apps, and enhanced volume controls. For creative users, the Voice Memos app now supports multi-track layering on compatible devices.

Availability and access:

These updates are expected to roll out to the public in early December. If you have already been testing Apple Intelligence, you will get access to Writing Tools, ChatGPT integration, and Visual Intelligence automatically. For others, there is a waiting list for early access to Genmoji‌, ‌Image Playground‌, and Image Wand. You can sign up to get access to any of these updates. On requesting access, you will be added to a waitlist for the three capabilities and will get a notification when the features are available for you to use.

You’ll need newer hardware like an iPhone 15 Pro or devices with M-series chips to gain access to the new updates as not all devices will be capable of supporting Apple Intelligence. For now, public beta testers can dive in and explore these new capabilities until they become available to everyone in December. 

Featured image: Apple