Apple has released the public beta of iOS 18.2, offering new AI-powered tools like Genmoji, an AI emoji generator, the Image Playground app for creating images, ChatGPT integration with Siri, and Visual Intelligence search with the iPhone 16 cameras. Initially available only to developers, these features are now open for public beta testing — though some still require joining a waitlist for access.
The suite of tools, collectively known as Apple Intelligence (or “AI” for short), aims to create a smarter user experience with Siri, enhanced writing and editing tools, and image generation capabilities. Apple has also opened Apple Intelligence to third-party developers, allowing integration with apps in categories like Books, Photos, Spreadsheets, Word processors, and more. This could make Apple Intelligence one of Apple’s most versatile offerings if widely adopted.
Key New AI Features in iOS 18.2 Public Beta
- Genmoji: A unique AI-powered emoji generator app for creating custom emojis.
- Image Playground: A standalone app where users can create images using AI prompts.
- Image Wand: Converts sketches into detailed AI-generated images within Notes.
- ChatGPT Integration with Siri: Users can extend Siri’s abilities with ChatGPT, allowing for text writing assistance, image generation, question answering, and more. Subscribers can access advanced ChatGPT features, providing Apple with a smarter Siri and giving ChatGPT exposure to iPhone’s broad user base.
Additionally, iPhone 16’s new Camera Control button activates Visual Intelligence, enabling real-time object and location identification through the camera lens.
Waitlist Access and Safety Concerns
While many of the AI features in iOS 18.2 are now available, some remain restricted, requiring users to enable Apple Intelligence and join waitlists for select image-generation tools. Apple has not confirmed the wait time for access, which may range from days to weeks. The waitlist is partly to address AI safety concerns, as some users have already tested Genmoji’s boundaries by designing NSFW emojis. This phased rollout also gives Apple time to scale the features safely.
AI Tools Previously Introduced in iOS 18.1
Prior to this update, Apple launched Writing Tools and notification summaries powered by Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.1, along with a new visual effect for Siri that glows along the screen’s edges when activated.
Public Betas for Other Apple Operating Systems
Alongside the iOS 18.2 beta, Apple has also released the first public betas for iPadOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2, and tvOS 18.2, allowing a broader audience to test AI features across Apple’s ecosystem.
With these innovative AI additions, Apple Intelligence promises to enhance user productivity and interaction with technology. However, the full potential of these tools will become clearer as Apple refines and scales them in the coming months.