Apple is rolling out iOS 18.3 in beta, and while it’s a minor update, there are still a few features and changes worth noting. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming iPhone update.
What we know so far
1. Integration of the robot vacuum cleaner into the Home application
The notable addition of iOS 18.3 is support for robot vacuums in the Home app. Although this feature is not yet available, Apple is preparing the ground, as the beta code shows. When available, this feature will allow you to control your robot vacuum via the Home app and Siri voice commands.
Apple described this feature as allowing users to manage essential functions such as power control, cleaning mode (vacuum or mop), and charging status. Robot vacuums will also integrate into automation and scenes, allowing cleaning tasks to be included in your routines. For example, you can schedule your vacuum to automatically start cleaning or ask Siri to manage spot cleaning in a specific room.
2. Repeat calculations in the Calculator app
With iOS 18, the Calculator app underwent significant changes, one of which included the removal of a useful feature: the ability to repeatedly press the equals button to perform calculations in progress.
However, in iOS 18.3 beta 2, Apple brought back this feature, allowing users to once again perform consecutive operations as they could in previous versions.
3. Prompt the app
Apple is reportedly developing a new app called Invites to help users organize meetings and events. While similar functionality exists in the Calendar app, this standalone solution can offer unique tools, possibly inspired by third-party apps like Fantastical, such as window scheduling and RSVP tracking. Apple has a history of adopting ideas from other apps, such as the fitness features introduced in watchOS 11. The first hints of “invitations” appeared in iOS 18.2 beta and resurfaced in 18.3 beta 2.
4. Minor updates and bug fixes
Beyond support for robot vacuums and repetitive calculations, iOS 18.3 includes a slightly updated Image Playground icon and general bug fixes to improve performance and stability.
So far, Apple has only released two beta versions of iOS 18.3. Historically, updates released during the holiday season are minimal, as Apple typically reduces its engineering activities during this time, but additional features or tweaks could appear in future beta releases.
