Apple's iOS 18.2 Beta Introduces Enhanced AI Features

Apple has launched the public beta for iOS 18.2, introducing a suite of advanced Apple Intelligence features aimed at boosting productivity, creativity, and overall usability on compatible iPhones. This update primarily targets iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and iPhone 16 series devices, with some features immediately accessible and others requiring users to join a waitlist.

The highlight of iOS 18.2 lies in its deeper integration of Apple Intelligence, promising a more conversational Siri, enhanced app interactions, and streamlined tools for content creation and management. Notably, Siri now incorporates ChatGPT, enabling the assistant to handle complex queries, generate creative content, and efficiently manage tasks through contextual understanding. From drafting emails to organizing schedules, Siri’s expanded capabilities transform the multitasking experience.

Visual Intelligence takes the iPhone’s camera capabilities up a notch, exclusively available for iPhone 16 series users. This feature enables users to snap photos of items, meals, or locations and receive detailed contextual information in real-time. For instance, users can capture a dish and receive calorie estimates, nutritional details, and recipe suggestions. While iPhone 15 Pro users won’t have full access to Visual Intelligence, they will benefit from AI vision, a ChatGPT-powered alternative requiring an internet connection.

Building on prior iOS iterations, iOS 18.2 further enhances Siri’s collaboration with ChatGPT. Siri’s integration with ChatGPT allows it to answer questions, provide advice, generate images, and more. For ChatGPT Plus subscribers, additional premium options are available directly in iOS Settings, such as higher usage limits and quicker response times, accessible under Apple Intelligence & Siri > ChatGPT.

One of the most anticipated features, currently waitlisted, is Image Playground — Apple’s AI-driven creative suite for photo editing and manipulation. Users can apply artistic styles to photos, generate new images from text prompts, and refine existing visuals with AI-powered enhancements. Designed as an independent iOS app, Image Playground provides a unique platform for creative expression.

Another waitlisted addition, Genmoji, takes the popular Memoji concept further by offering users the ability to generate realistic, personalized avatars. These avatars can reflect a range of expressions, emotions, and outfits, adding a dynamic layer to messaging experiences.

To try out iOS 18.2’s new features, users can access the beta via Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates, then select iOS 18.2 public beta. After the update appears, agreeing to Apple’s terms will start the download. Users should back up their devices before updating, as beta versions may contain bugs.

For those interested in waitlisted features, accessing them requires submitting a request. After installing the iOS 18.2 beta, users can locate the new Image Playground app in their App Library to join the waitlist. Genmoji requests can be submitted through the emoji keyboard, though wait times for both features may extend several weeks.

With the introduction of tools like Image Playground, Genmoji, and an enhanced ChatGPT-powered Siri, Apple is pushing the boundaries of AI integration in everyday smartphone use through iOS 18.2.