Apple rolls out iOS 18.2 Beta 3 with new AI features, CarPlay upgrades, and firmware updates

Apple has just released the third beta versions of iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2 to developers, alongside updates for watchOS 11.2, tvOS 18.2, and HomePod Software 18.2. These releases bring exciting new features, especially focusing on AI enhancements and integrations, next-gen CarPlay improvements, and firmware updates for AirPods. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s new.

1. Enhanced AI Features in iOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2

Apple is pushing its AI capabilities further with features like Image Playground, Genmoji, and Siri-ChatGPT Integration.

Image Playground: Apple’s Image Generation App

• Image Playground is a creative tool that lets users generate unique images based on prompts. You can input a description or choose from Apple’s suggested themes. The app can create character-based illustrations or animated styles, pulling inspiration from conversations in Messages or Notes. It also integrates into the Messages app, making it easy to share creations.

Image Wand for iPad Users

• The Image Wand feature in the Notes app lets iPad users sketch or highlight a section to generate an image, powered by Image Playground. Using Apple Pencil, you can quickly visualize ideas based on keywords or drawings.

Genmoji: Personalized Emojis

• Genmoji allows users to create custom emojis based on descriptions, using data from the People album in Photos. Users can make characters that resemble friends and family, enhancing communication with personalized expressions.

Siri and ChatGPT Integration

• Siri now integrates with ChatGPT, enabling it to answer complex questions it couldn’t handle before. If Siri doesn’t know the answer, it can pass the query to ChatGPT for a more detailed response. This feature enhances Siri’s usability, making it more interactive and capable of generating text or image content.

Visual Intelligence: Smart Camera Features

• Visual Intelligence leverages the camera to provide information about your surroundings. It can detect restaurant details, scan text for copying, or even connect to ChatGPT for deeper information about objects in view. This feature is exclusive to iPhone 16 models.

Writing Tools and Language Expansion

• Apple has upgraded its Writing Tools feature, allowing more customization in tone and style beyond simple formatting. Now, users can adjust writing tones or request stylistic changes like adding action words or converting emails into poems. The tool also supports localized English versions for various countries.

2. Firmware Updates for AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2

Apple has rolled out firmware updates for AirPods 4 (version 7B20) and AirPods Pro 2 (version 7B21). These updates include bug fixes and general improvements, although no specific new features were detailed. Previously, updates included hearing aid support and hearing protection features for AirPods Pro 2. Users should keep their AirPods connected to an iOS device to receive these updates automatically.

3. WatchOS 11.2 Beta Installation Issues Resolved

The second beta of watchOS 11.2 faced installation issues, particularly on Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Users reported “Software Update Failed” errors. Apple has identified the problem and is expected to re-release an updated beta version to resolve this issue soon.

4. Next-Generation CarPlay in iOS 18.2

Apple continues refining its next-generation CarPlay experience, which promises deeper integration and a customizable interface.

New Features and Integration

• The upcoming CarPlay system will feature integration with vehicle controls, including climate, media, and instrument clusters. Drivers will have access to speedometers, fuel gauges, and temperature controls directly on the dashboard screens.
• The multi-display support allows the CarPlay interface to extend across different screens, providing a seamless experience tailored to each vehicle model. Widgets for quick access to apps like Calendar, Weather, and Music will enhance user interaction.

New Apps for Enhanced Control

Apple is working on several new CarPlay apps, such as:

• Auto Settings for managing paired devices.
• Car Camera to display rear-view camera feeds.
• Climate for adjusting vehicle climate settings directly from the CarPlay interface.
• Tire Pressure for monitoring air levels in each tire.
• Trips for providing driving statistics like speed and efficiency.

Committed Automakers

Car manufacturers like Acura, Audi, Ford, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche have committed to integrating next-generation CarPlay into their upcoming models, with vehicle releases expected in 2024.

5. tvOS 18.2 and HomePod Software 18.2 Updates

The tvOS 18.2 beta introduces support for various screen aspect ratios, making it compatible with different projectors, including 21:9 displays. It also includes new screensavers and content optimizations. Meanwhile, HomePod Software 18.2 focuses on improving audio quality and voice recognition for seamless smart home integration.

6. Release Date Expectations

Apple is expected to officially release iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2, watchOS 11.2, and other software updates in early December 2024. The updates will be available on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 models, M-series iPads, and Macs.

Conclusion

Apple’s new beta updates introduce powerful AI-driven features, enhanced user customization, and an upgraded CarPlay experience that promises to reshape in-car connectivity. Firmware updates for AirPods add stability, while improvements in watchOS, tvOS, and HomePod software continue to refine Apple’s ecosystem. With the final releases expected soon, users can anticipate a more integrated and feature-rich experience across Apple devices.

This extensive update cycle reflects Apple’s ongoing commitment to innovation and user experience, setting the stage for a strong finish to 2024.