Apple has recently announced the iOS 18.3 update, generating anticipation for the upcoming iOS 18.4 beta, expected to launch around January 28. New features will include an upgraded Mail app, enhanced writing tools, a creative Image Playground, and personalized ‘Genmojis’. Visual Intelligence will provide practical functionalities, while Siri will improve its understanding and task management capabilities. Only users with compatible iPhones, such as the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, will have access to these innovations.
Recently, Apple unveiled the iOS 18.3 update, and the excitement is building for the upcoming release of the first beta version of iOS 18.4. This new update promises an array of innovative features, but it’s essential to note that only users with compatible iPhones will be able to take advantage of these enhancements.
Anticipated Release Date for iOS 18.4 Beta
According to insights from the tech blog 9to5Mac, past iOS release patterns suggest that the first beta of iOS 18.4 could debut as early as January 28. This timeline is particularly noteworthy since the official launch is slated for April. Experts believe Apple is keen on allowing ample time for thorough testing of the new Apple Intelligence features.
While detailed information about iOS 18.4 remains scarce, Apple has confirmed that the AI feature, ‘Apple Intelligence’, will introduce support for additional languages, including German. This enhancement will be available in Germany starting in April.
Exciting New Features on the Horizon
The initial beta of iOS 18.4 may introduce several groundbreaking Apple Intelligence features, but availability will be limited to beta testers using iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, or iPhone 16. Due to the advanced hardware requirements of the AI functionalities, older devices will not be compatible. However, users with eligible iPhones can look forward to these exciting innovations:
Revamped Mail App
Apple Intelligence is set to transform the Mail app with a more modern and user-friendly interface. Emails will automatically be categorized into four distinct sections: ‘Primary Channel’ for crucial messages, ‘Transactions’ for orders and invoices, ‘Updates’ for newsletters and notifications, and ‘Advertising’ for promotional emails.
This categorized view will be enabled by default but can easily be switched to a traditional chronological list in the settings. Additionally, the AI will have the capability to summarize lengthy emails and suggest suitable replies, enhancing the overall search functionality as well.
Enhanced Writing Tools
Users can expect a suite of practical tools aimed at simplifying daily tasks, including a new writing tool. This feature allows you to modify the tone of your text—whether you want it to sound more friendly, professional, or simple. The innovative rewrite function even lets you make unique requests, such as transforming text into a poem.
Creative Image Playground
The introduction of the Image Playground app will enable users to generate images based on their ideas. Similar to existing AI tools, users simply input a description, and the app produces corresponding images in various styles. While realistic depictions may not be an option, Apple offers predefined categories like themes and locations for creative inspiration.
Users can also edit photos from their galleries and incorporate them into their creations. Although Image Playground functions independently, it integrates seamlessly with other applications like Notes, Messages, or Siri. Features like the Magic Wand will allow you to convert sketches and descriptions into images directly in the Notes app.
Introducing Genmoji
Say goodbye to traditional emojis with the introduction of ‘Genmojis’. This feature allows users to create personalized emojis by describing their idea or uploading a photo, with the AI generating a unique image. The best part? Genmojis will display correctly wherever Rich Text (RTI) is supported, enabling Android users to view them via WhatsApp.
Visual Intelligence for Daily Use
Visual Intelligence offers practical capabilities for everyday scenarios. For instance, pointing your camera at a restaurant will instantly reveal information about its hours, reviews, and popular dishes. This tool can also read aloud text, recognize phone numbers and addresses for easy saving, and allow you to copy or scan products to find their availability immediately.
Siri Gets Smarter
Siri is set to gain significant enhancements through Apple Intelligence. The assistant will exhibit improved contextual understanding, allowing for smoother conversations where multiple questions can be asked consecutively without repeating information. Thanks to a collaboration with OpenAI, Siri will also be able to delegate complex tasks to ChatGPT for more accurate responses.
Join the Beta Testing Community
It remains uncertain whether all features of iOS 18.4 will be accessible in the initial beta or released incrementally. If you’re eager to experience Apple Intelligence firsthand, consider signing up as a beta tester. We’ve outlined the steps you need to get started!