Apple has released the first public beta version of its new operating system for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV. This update introduces several useful features and improvements, with future updates promising enhanced Siri and Apple Intelligence functions, according to The Verge.
New Features and Improvements
The public beta of iOS 18 introduces support for RCS messaging, new settings allowing you to place apps anywhere on the home screen, and the option to change the colors of icons and widgets. Additionally, there is a new layout for the Photos app and the ability to customize the Control Center. Similar updates are included in the public beta version of iPadOS 18, which also features the long-awaited “Calculator”.
However, iOS 18 does not yet include Apple Intelligence. Apple is reserving this technological innovation for a future beta version, set to be released in the fall. Apple Intelligence will only be available on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, as well as on Mac and iPad devices with M1 chips and above. At this time, Apple has not announced the AI feature for any other platforms, including the Apple Watch, notes NIX Solutions.
Updates Across Apple Devices
The watchOS 11 public beta introduces an Apple Vitals app for quickly viewing overnight health data. For Macs, the Sequoia beta includes the ability to mirror the iPhone screen directly on the Mac screen, among other updates. The tvOS 18 beta includes InSight for Apple TV Plus content, similar to Amazon X-Ray.
The Verge notes that while most devices can be downgraded to the current stable version of the operating system, this cannot be done with the Apple Watch. Users will have to wait until the stable version is released in the fall, so this is something to consider before installing the beta version on your watch.
For those interested in testing the new operating system, you can sign up for Apple’s beta testing program. Device-specific installation instructions can be found on the official Apple website. As always, we’ll keep you updated with the latest developments.