Top 3 Key Points:
- Apple Intelligence Expansion: iOS 18.1 brings enhanced AI features like smarter Siri and AI-powered writing tools.
- New Control Center Features: iPhone and iPad users now get easier access to Wi-Fi, VPN controls, and more customization.
- iPhone Mirroring Enhancements: Drag-and-drop support between iPhone and macOS speeds up file sharing.
Apple has just rolled out iOS 18.1 public beta 2, providing users with early access to exciting new features and improvements. This release isn’t just limited to iOS; public beta 2 also includes updates for iPadOS 18.1, macOS Sequoia 15.1, and more, ahead of their official public launch in mid-to-late October. Here’s what’s new and improved in this round of updates.
iOS 18.1 Beta 2: What’s New?
If you are already part of Apple’s public beta program, you can find the latest iOS 18.1 beta 2 by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Not enrolled yet? You can easily join the beta program via Apple’s website and get early access to iOS 18.1 features.
One of the key highlights of iOS 18.1 is the Apple Intelligence suite. This includes a smarter Siri, AI-powered notification summaries, and new writing tools to boost productivity. However, some features, like Genmoji, won’t be available until later updates. Keep in mind that these features will only work on certain devices, such as the iPhone 16 series and iPhone 15 Pro.
Beyond Apple Intelligence, iOS 18.1 introduces call recording and transcription in the Phone app, Control Center enhancements, and several other refinements.
Key Updates in iOS 18.1 Beta 2:
- Control Center Improvements: Now includes Wi-Fi and VPN connectivity controls, plus the option to reset the layout to default.
- iPhone Mirroring: With the latest macOS Sequoia 15.1 beta, you can drag and drop files between your iPhone and Mac, making file sharing faster than ever.
- Camera Controls: iPhone 16 users can now easily switch to the selfie camera while in Camera Control.
- Enhanced Writing Tools: Apple Intelligence writing tools are now available in the Notes app for easier document creation.
- RCS Support: More carriers, like TracFone and C Spire, now support RCS messaging in the U.S.
- Shortcuts Update: A new action for triggering Control Center has been added, along with updates to Health and Apple Card actions.
iPadOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1: What’s New?
The updates for iPadOS and macOS include similar Control Center improvements, such as new standalone Wi-Fi and VPN controls and a reset option. Additionally, Low Power Mode can now be toggled directly from the macOS Menu Bar.
For Mac and iPad users, one of the most exciting updates is the ability to use Apple Intelligence tools, especially if you have an M1 (or later) chip. You’ll be able to test out features like AI-powered Siri, intelligent notifications, and enhanced writing tools—although these features are currently restricted to certain regions.
What’s Next?
Apple is likely to release weekly beta updates leading up to the full public launch of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 in October. These updates will gradually shift focus from introducing new features to optimizing performance and fixing bugs.
With these public betas, Apple continues to fine-tune its software, offering users a sneak peek at what’s coming next in its ecosystem. If you’re comfortable with potential performance issues, joining the public beta program gives you early access to all the new tools and improvements Apple has to offer.
