iOS 18.2 brings new Safari Live Activity, AI features, and more in Public Beta

Apple’s iOS 18.2 beta introduces an exciting range of updates across Safari, Apple Intelligence, and more, offering iPhone users enhanced functionality. The new features span Safari’s download tracking, expanded AI tools, and better Face ID integration, while public betas for iPadOS 18.2, macOS 15.2, and others bring similar upgrades. Here’s everything that’s included.

Safari Live Activity for File Downloads

One of iOS 18.2’s highlights is Safari’s Live Activity, which provides real-time tracking for file downloads. Discovered in the beta release, this feature automatically displays download progress on both the Dynamic Island and Lock Screen, making it easy to monitor files without repeatedly checking Safari. The addition extends Apple’s push to bring more utility to Live Activities across iOS.

Expansions in Apple Intelligence and AI Tools

The public beta of iOS 18.2 introduces powerful upgrades to Apple Intelligence, bringing AI tools directly to iPhone and iPad users:

• Genmoji Creation: This new feature allows users to design their own custom emoji.
• ChatGPT Integration: Siri gains advanced conversational abilities with integrated ChatGPT, enhancing its usefulness in everyday tasks.
• Image Playground: Exclusively available for iPhone 16 and iPad, this feature lets users create original images using AI, expanding creative possibilities.
• Writing Tools Enhancements: With options to customize AI revisions, these tools improve Apple Intelligence’s writing capabilities.

To prevent misuse, Apple is introducing these features through a waitlist. Users can join via the Image Playground or Genmoji tool within the emoji keyboard.

Enhancements to Default App Management and Localized Apple Intelligence

In addition to AI features, iOS 18.2’s beta makes it easier for users to manage default apps across categories and offers new English localizations for Apple Intelligence in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK.

New Features in iPadOS 18.2, macOS 15.2, and tvOS 18.2 Betas

The latest public betas for iPadOS, macOS, and tvOS introduce several new features for compatible devices:

• iPadOS AI Exclusives: The “Image Wand” in Notes allows users to draw with the Apple Pencil and experiment with Image Playground for AI-generated art.
• macOS Weather Widget: The updated macOS beta brings a weather widget to the Menu Bar, providing real-time weather information.
• tvOS Support for Projector Ratios: Users now enjoy a broader range of aspect ratio settings for connected projectors.

Face ID for Computer Trust on iOS

For added security, iOS 18.2 now lets iPhone and iPad users trust a new computer with Face ID when connecting via USB. Previously, users had to enter their passcode to establish trust, but Face ID simplifies the process for a seamless experience.

How to Install iOS 18.2 Beta

To try out these features, sign up for Apple’s Beta Software Program. After registering, users can install the beta on their devices through Settings > Software Update. It’s free and available for anyone with an Apple ID.

Expected Release and Responsible AI

Apple is expected to release iOS 18.2 to the public by mid-December. The phased rollout and waitlist approach for AI image tools underscore Apple’s commitment to responsible AI, ensuring features are safe and ethically used. With new capabilities and improvements, iOS 18.2 promises a richer, more intelligent user experience.