Apple Intelligence Expands in iOS 18.2 Developer Beta

The rollout of Apple Intelligence has been gradual since its introduction at WWDC earlier this year. Today, the company has launched the latest developer betas for iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia. With the updates to iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia (15.2), users can look forward to highly anticipated features like Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, and ChatGPT integration. Additionally, new writing tools and the Image Wand feature for iPads are included in this update.

This update follows the announcement that iOS 18.1 will be available as a stable release to the public next week. This upcoming release will introduce various features, including writing tools, notification summaries, and Apple's hearing test functionality for all users.

For many, this is the first chance to explore Apple Intelligence without the need for beta software. Apple has heavily promoted this technology as a key feature for its recent devices, including the iPhone 16 series, which was initially launched without these capabilities.

The availability of these new tools for developers suggests that a public release may be just weeks away. Developers on the beta program will receive the updates automatically. However, it's important to note that beta software may contain bugs, so users should back up their data before installation. Access to the beta features requires an Apple developer account.

Genmoji is Making Its Debut Today

One of the standout features in today’s update is Genmoji, which allows users to create custom emojis directly from their keyboard. Users can access the emoji keyboard, tap the Genmoji button, and enter what they wish to create. Apple Intelligence will then generate several options to choose from. Users can also make Genmoji based on images of their friends, producing accurate Memoji representations in emoji style, preventing any confusion with real photographs.

Along with Genmoji, Apple is introducing a Genmoji API that allows third-party messaging applications to support and display Genmoji. This means users on platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram can share their uniquely created emojis with friends.

Alongside Genmoji, users will find features like Image Playground and Image Wand now available. Image Playground functions as both a standalone app and an option within the Messages app. When accessed from Messages, users can quickly generate image suggestions based on their conversations or manually describe what they want. Users can select styles like Animation or Illustration, but photorealistic images will not be available.

Image Wand is another feature included today—it enhances the Apple Pencil tool palette, enabling users to refine their sketches into more polished artworks.

ChatGPT Integrates with Siri and Writing Tools

Apple is also integrating ChatGPT into Siri and Writing Tools. When users make requests that could benefit from OpenAI’s technology, the system will suggest using ChatGPT. For instance, if a user asks Siri for an itinerary, the assistant may indicate it needs to use ChatGPT for that task, prompting for permission. Users can control how often the system raises AI support suggestions.

Importantly, users do not need a ChatGPT account to utilize these features. Apple has its own agreement with OpenAI, ensuring user data, including IP addresses, are not retained or utilized for model training. However, if users do opt to connect their ChatGPT account, their data will be subject to OpenAI policies.

In Writing Tools, Apple Intelligence allows users to compose with ChatGPT, providing options to Rewrite, Summarize, and Proofread. A new feature called "Describe your change" has been incorporated, allowing users to specify desired edits directly, such as making writing sound more enthusiastic or checking for grammar errors.

Visual Intelligence for iPhone 16 Users

Lastly, users who own an iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro and are enrolled in the developer beta can explore Visual Intelligence. This feature enables users to point their camera at objects and receive answers to questions, such as solving math problems or reading a restaurant menu. Visual Intelligence can leverage external services like Google and ChatGPT for comprehensive responses.

To access Apple Intelligence features outside the iPhone 16 series, users will need compatible devices, such as the iPhone 15 Pro or newer models, as well as M-series iPads and MacBooks.

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