I’ve been using the iOS 18 developer beta for some time now, so transitioning to the iOS 18 Public beta was a smooth process. Overall, the update is stable and brings a lot of customization options and small touches that enhance the user experience. However, the real game-changer will be the Apple Intelligence features, which are currently missing from the public beta. These features are highly anticipated but may take some time to arrive.
One of the notable changes in iOS 18 is the ability to customize the home screen and organize apps in a more flexible manner. While you can move app icons around and resize widgets, there are still some limitations to the customization options. The Control Center has also been revamped to offer more personalization, but it’s easy to get carried away with the customization and end up with a cluttered interface.
The Photos app update allows for more intuitive searching of photos using natural language phrases, but this feature requires indexing of all photos to work effectively. The Messages app introduces updated reactions and the ability to create Genmoji, which are AI-generated emoji figures that are yet to be available without Apple Intelligence.
One of the useful features in the iOS 18 Public beta is the ability to schedule iMessages, which can be handy for sending messages at specific times. The new Passwords app provides a clear overview of all passwords and Wi-Fi networks, making it a valuable addition to iOS 18.
Other updates include the ability to lock apps behind Face ID, a redesigned Flashlight with additional controls, and the inclusion of Math Notes in the Notes app for solving math equations. However, the public beta does not yet include the anticipated Apple Intelligence features like new Siri capabilities, chatbot functions, text suggestions, and Image Playground.
Overall, iOS 18 Public beta is a polished work in progress with promising features on the horizon. While it may not be necessary to rush to install it on your current iPhone, the upcoming Apple Intelligence features could make it a game-changer. As we await the arrival of these features, iOS 18 continues to evolve with incremental updates and improvements.
Lance Ulanoff, a seasoned tech journalist with decades of experience, provides valuable insights into the new features and updates in iOS 18. His expertise and in-depth knowledge of the tech industry offer a comprehensive perspective on the potential impact of the latest iOS update. Stay tuned for more updates and reviews as iOS 18 continues to develop and expand its capabilities.
