iOS 18.2 Introduces Exciting Non-AI Features and Upgrades

Apple’s iOS 18.2 is in beta testing, introducing a wave of features beyond the anticipated Apple Intelligence updates. This release, scheduled for December, brings various improvements, from camera controls to app redesigns, enhancing the user experience on iPhones that support iOS 18.

iOS 18.2 Device Compatibility

iOS 18.2 will be available for all iPhones compatible with iOS 18. The advanced Apple Intelligence features remain exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 models. Supported iPhone models include:

• iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 series, 13 series, and 14 series
• iPhone 15 and 16 series, including Plus and Pro versions
• iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generations)

Notable Non-AI Features

Camera Control Enhancements for iPhone 16

iPhone 16 models will gain significant Camera Control updates:

• Two-Stage Shutter: Lightly pressing locks focus and exposure, while a full press captures the photo.
• Double-Click Speed Adjustment: Users can customize the Camera Control double-click speed in Accessibility settings, with options for Default, Slow, and Slower.
• Screen On Requirement: A Camera Control press can launch the Camera app even if the screen is off, configurable in Settings.

Redesigned Mail App

The Mail app undergoes a major redesign, introducing an on-device categorization system that sorts emails into four categories:

1. Primary: For personal, time-sensitive emails.
2. Transactions: Receipts and confirmations.
3. Updates: Notifications from social media and news.
4. Promotions: Marketing emails and special offers.

A new digest view compiles emails from specific businesses, and notification badges can be limited to unread messages in the Primary category.

Find My App Upgrades

Find My gains the ability to share AirTag locations via link. The link can display the item’s location on a map, automatically updating with timestamps for recent movements. Additionally, Apple has partnered with over 15 airlines to use these links for locating lost luggage.

Volume Limit Settings

A new Volume Limit feature in the Settings app allows users to set a maximum volume for the iPhone’s built-in speaker. It’s accessible under “Sounds and Haptics” for better audio control.

Return of the Lock Screen Volume Slider

iOS 18.2 restores the volume slider to the Lock Screen permanently. Previously removed in iOS 16, users can enable this feature through:

• Settings > Accessibility > Audio and Visual > Toggle “Always Show Volume Control.”

Voice Memos for iPhone 16 Pro

Exclusive to iPhone 16 Pro, Voice Memos now allow recording with layered tracks. Users can overlay and separate tracks for flexible recording and editing.

Photos App Update

A change in the Photos app prevents videos from zooming in when tapped. Instead, the scrubber and gallery view remain visible for easier navigation.

Additional Changes and System Features

• A browser choice screen has been implemented for EU iPhone users.
• Users can delete built-in apps like App Store, Messages, Camera, Photos, and Safari.
• Worldwide, users can set default apps for messaging and calling via a new “Defaults” menu in Settings.
• A new Type to Siri widget is available in Control Center.
• Safari now includes browsing history import/export options.
• The Podcasts app allows specific categories to be marked as favorites.
• iPhone Mirroring can now be used while tethering a Mac via hotspot.
• New Shortcuts actions have been added for the Fitness app.

iOS 18.2 Release Timeline

Apple plans to release iOS 18.2 in December. For reference, previous December releases include iOS 17.2 on December 11, 2023, and iOS 16.2 on December 13, 2022. As the update is still in beta, some features may be adjusted before the final release.