Apple expands default app options and intelligence features in iOS 18.2 with global updates, new mail design, and ChatGPT integration

Apple’s iOS 18.2 update brings significant changes, expanding the flexibility for iPhone users to set default apps for messaging and calling globally. Due to regulatory pressures, the new feature was initially expected only for European Union (EU) users, but it is now available worldwide. This update comes as part of Apple’s continuous response to EU regulations, which has also driven other major changes like RCS (Rich Communication Services) support.

Global Default App Settings for Messaging and Calling

In iOS 18.2, Apple introduces a new “Default Apps” section in the settings menu. For the first time, users can choose their default apps not only for browsing and emailing but now also for messaging and calling. This change brings a new level of customization that had been limited in previous iOS versions. This feature, first revealed in the iOS 18.2 developer beta, ensures that U.S. users, alongside those in the EU, can access these options, helping maintain consistency between iPhones globally.

Through this dedicated hub, users can also more easily manage their call-filtering preferences, passwords, and keyboards. The settings are designed to give users more control over their devices, with a layout that allows seamless management of default apps from one centralized place.

Redesigned Mail App with Smart Categories

Another big highlight in iOS 18.2 is the revamped Mail app, which Apple first announced at the WWDC 2024 event. Available now to beta testers, the redesigned app brings a sleeker look and introduces smart categories for email organization. The app uses on-device intelligence to categorize emails into sections like “Primary,” “Transactions,” “Updates,” and “Promotions.”

• Primary: Contains personal messages and important communications.
• Transactions: Stores emails related to purchases and order confirmations.
• Updates: Holds newsletters and social media notifications.
• Promotions: Gathers marketing emails and advertisements.

Additionally, users will see clearer divisions between new and old emails, and there is a feature to easily view all emails from the same sender. The new Mail app also suggests smart replies based on context, further enhancing productivity through Apple’s intelligence-driven features.

Expanding Apple Intelligence Support Across Regions

With iOS 18.2, Apple extends the reach of its Apple Intelligence features to more regions. Previously available only in the United States, Apple Intelligence now officially supports five new English locales: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. This expansion allows users in these regions to fully utilize advanced AI tools like Siri updates, writing enhancements, AI-driven photo features, and more without needing to switch their device language to U.S. English.

Apple also plans to add support for more languages in 2025, including French, Spanish, German, and Italian. These updates ensure Apple Intelligence becomes a more integral part of the iOS experience for a growing number of users across the globe.

ChatGPT Integration with Siri and Writing Tools

Perhaps one of the most exciting additions in iOS 18.2 is the integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT into Siri and Apple’s writing tools. With this update, users can now ask Siri to send queries directly to ChatGPT for more advanced responses. Users can also create images via Siri by asking ChatGPT to generate them based on their descriptions.

Key highlights of the ChatGPT integration include:

• Permission prompts can be disabled: Users can bypass permission requests for ChatGPT through a toggle in the settings, allowing faster responses.
• Send requests directly to ChatGPT: By starting a Siri request with “Ask ChatGPT,” users can skip Apple’s own systems and get responses directly from ChatGPT.
• Text creation capabilities: Apple’s AI writing tools now support drafting original text, offering more than just editing or reformatting. Users can compose entirely new text using the built-in ChatGPT.
• No OpenAI account required: Users can access ChatGPT’s features without needing an OpenAI account, although they have the option to link one if they prefer.

For security reasons, ChatGPT integration is off by default but can be enabled through the settings.

Genmoji and Image Playground

iOS 18.2 also introduces new features like Genmoji and Image Playground, exclusively available on Apple Intelligence-supported devices, including iPhone 15 Pro or later and M1 iPads. Genmoji allows users to create personalized emojis, and users without an AI-compatible device can still receive and save these Genmoji, adding them to their emoji libraries for future use. This opens up a unique experience for users across devices, as even non-AI iPhones can send and receive Genmoji once they have been shared.

Third-Party Web Browsers with Custom Engines in the EU

In compliance with EU regulations, Apple now allows third-party web browsers to use custom engines when adding web apps to the Home Screen. This feature, previously restricted to Safari, is now extended to EU browsers, offering more flexibility for web browsing. However, this capability remains exclusive to the EU due to Apple’s WebKit requirements in other regions.

Public Release and Future Updates

While iOS 18.2 is currently in beta for developers, Apple plans to release the update to the public in December 2024. The developer beta is available only for devices compatible with Apple Intelligence, but a public beta version is expected soon. By mid-2025, Apple will continue rolling out Apple Intelligence features to even more regions and languages, further expanding its capabilities.

In summary, iOS 18.2 brings a wealth of new features that enhance customization, intelligence, and flexibility for users worldwide. Whether it’s the ability to change default apps, explore ChatGPT integration, or enjoy an improved Mail experience, Apple continues to deliver a more personalized and powerful iPhone experience.