Apple Releases Updated Fourth Beta Versions of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 for Developers
Apple Releases Updated Fourth Beta Versions of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 for Developers Friday, July 26, 2024 1:13 PM PDT by Juli Clover
Apple has released updated fourth betas of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 to developers for testing. These new betas follow the initial release of beta 4, but it is unclear what changes have been made between the previous build (22A5316j) and the latest (22A5316k). The update is available to all registered developers.
To access the betas, developers need to open the Settings app, navigate to the Software Update section, select “Beta Updates,” and enable the iOS 18/iPadOS 18 Developer Beta option. An Apple ID associated with a developer account is required to download and install the beta software.
iOS 18 introduces “Apple Intelligence,” a suite of AI-driven features integrated deeply into the operating system. Although full functionality of Apple Intelligence will be available later in the beta testing phase, it includes capabilities for advanced writing refinement, image and emoji generation, and enhanced Siri and search functionalities. Siri will feature improved natural language understanding, better contextual awareness, and integration with ChatGPT to handle more complex queries.
Initially, Apple Intelligence features are exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro models and iPads with M-series chips. Other new features include customizable Home screen layouts with open spaces, dark mode for app icons, and various tinting options.
Control Center customization is enhanced, allowing third-party developers to add app-specific controls, and users can now replace or remove the Lock Screen Flashlight and Camera icons. Messages will support Rich Communication Services for better interaction with Android users, scheduled texts, new text effects, satellite messaging when cellular service is unavailable, and the use of any emoji for Tapback responses.
A new Passwords app will manage logins, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes. Additionally, users can now lock and hide apps, requiring Face ID or Touch ID authentication to open them even when the phone is unlocked.
Safari now includes a highlights feature to summarize articles and extract key information from websites. The Photos app interface has been redesigned, and a new Tap to Cash feature allows private and secure money transfers using Apple Cash. Other updates include equation solving and voice memo transcription in Notes, a game mode for enhanced gaming performance, and the ability to respond to Siri on AirPods with head gestures.
Currently, iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 are available only to registered developers, with a public beta expected later this month. The official public release of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 is scheduled for this fall.
