Apple is gearing up for the release of iOS 18.4 beta, expected to introduce exciting features, including enhanced AI capabilities and improvements to Siri. Users with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 will see significant upgrades, while older devices receive minor updates. The Mail app will feature AI-driven email categorization, and new writing tools will allow customization of tone. Users can create unique emojis and access information through Visual Intelligence, further enhancing their experience with Siri. Beta testing opportunities will be available soon.
Upcoming iOS 18.4 Beta Release and Features
In January, Apple introduced the iOS 18.3 update, and anticipation is building for the imminent release of the iOS 18.4 beta. This upcoming update is expected to unveil a host of exciting new features, specifically for users with compatible iPhone models.
When Can We Expect the iOS 18.4 Beta?
The tech blog 9to5Mac has analyzed past release patterns of iOS versions and initially speculated that the first beta of iOS 18.4 would drop on January 28. However, they have yet to be proven correct, as Apple has not released any beta versions to date. Experts remain optimistic that the first iOS 18.4 beta could be just around the corner.
While detailed information about iOS 18.4 is still limited, Apple has confirmed some noteworthy enhancements. Notably, the AI feature known as ‘Apple Intelligence’ will expand its language capabilities, now including German. Users in Germany are expected to gain access to this AI feature starting in April, while those in the USA have enjoyed it since October 2024.
Exciting New Features on the Horizon
Initially, Apple Intelligence will be available exclusively on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16, with users of older devices receiving only minor updates from iOS 18.4. For example, vacuum robots will now integrate seamlessly into the Home app, and new emojis—such as a harp, shovel, and fingerprint—will be added.
Furthermore, Siri is set to receive significant upgrades, including improved recognition of visual content displayed on your screen and the ability to perform actions based on that content. Siri will also enhance its memory, allowing it to recall user preferences and respond to specific commands like ‘Play my favorite podcast.’ Below are some additional features that will accompany Apple Intelligence.
Mail App Enhancements
Apple Intelligence will be intricately woven into the Mail app, resulting in a more modern and user-friendly interface. Emails will be automatically categorized into four sections: ‘Primary Channel’ for important messages, ‘Transactions’ for orders and invoices, ‘Updates’ for newsletters and notifications, and ‘Advertising’ for promotional content.
This categorized view will be activated by default but can be switched to a traditional chronological layout in the settings. The AI will also have the capability to summarize lengthy emails automatically and suggest tailored responses. Additionally, the search function is expected to see significant improvements thanks to AI capabilities.
Revamped Writing Tools and Image Playground
Apple Intelligence introduces practical writing tools designed to simplify your everyday tasks. One such feature allows users to adjust the tone of their writing—making it friendlier, more professional, or simpler. The new rewrite function enhances this capability by accommodating unique requests, such as ‘Turn this text into a poem.’
Moreover, the Image Playground app will allow users to create images based on their ideas. Similar to AI tools like ChatGPT, you can enter text, and the app will generate corresponding images in animation or illustration styles. Predefined categories such as themes and costumes are available for inspiration, and users can also edit and incorporate photos from their gallery.
Introducing Genmoji and Visual Intelligence
Say goodbye to traditional emojis! With Apple Intelligence, you can create custom emojis called ‘Genmojis.’ Simply describe your idea or upload a photo, and the AI will generate a unique emoji that displays correctly across various platforms, allowing even Android users to view them through WhatsApp.
Visual Intelligence is another remarkable feature that enhances daily life. By pointing your camera at a restaurant, for example, you can instantly access information such as opening hours, reviews, and popular dishes. This tool can also read text aloud, recognize phone numbers and addresses, and allow you to scan products for immediate availability information.
Enhanced Siri Experience
With Apple Intelligence, Siri is poised to become even more intuitive. The assistant will better understand context and retain the flow of conversation, allowing users to ask multiple questions in succession without needing to repeat previous requests. Thanks to a collaboration with OpenAI, Siri can also delegate complex tasks to ChatGPT, resulting in more accurate and relevant answers.
Become a Beta Tester
It remains unclear whether all features of iOS 18.4 will be accessible upon the initial beta release or rolled out gradually. If you’re eager to experience Apple Intelligence firsthand, consider signing up as a beta tester. We’ve provided detailed instructions on how to get started.