Apple has deployed iOS 18.4 Beta 2 for developer testers, and it is full of a range of new updates and improvements. Although the update is always in its test phase, it already gives the testers wishing to try the latest features of iOS 18.4, before its release in April. Some of the main strengths of the latest beta version include the management of visual intelligence for certain older iPhones, the possibility of personalizing priority notifications, new tips in the control center and more. Here is an overview of what is new in the iOS 18.4 Beta 2 version.
Visual intelligence comes to older iPhones
One of the out -of -competition features in iOS 18.4 Beta 2 is the arrival of visual intelligence on the iPhone 15 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro Max. This feature, which was initially exclusive to the iPhone 16 range, allows users to carry out visual searches using an AI, connected to Google and Chatgpt. Previously, visual intelligence could only be accessible via the camera control button on the iPhone 16 models. However, with the iPhone 16th without camera control button, Apple has adapted the functionality to operate via the action button and the control center. Now, this feature has also been extended to the iPhone 15 Pro series.
Priority notifications become more customizable
Another notable addition in this beta version is the possibility of personalizing priority notifications. Introduced in iOS 18.4 Beta 1, priority notifications use AI to highlight your most important alerts. Now, with Beta 2, users can choose applications eligible for hierarchy. In the Settings application, you will find a list of all the installed applications, allowing you to decide which should have their priority notifications. This gives users more control over how they manage their alerts, ensuring that only the most relevant occupy the stage.
The control center becomes smarter
The control center has also received some attention in this update. Apple has added new tips for faster access to Apple Intelligence and Siri’s features. These include options like talking to Siri, Type to Siri and Visual Intelligence. The type with the Siri rocking is not entirely new – it was introduced in iOS 18.1 last year – but its inclusion in the control center makes it more convenient to use. These tips are available on all iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 models.
New Emoji and shortcut actions
Emoji lovers will be happy to know that iOS 18.4 Beta 2 presents seven new emojis, including a face with bags under the eyes, a fingerprint, a leave without leaves and even a harp. Although the rise of Genmoji in the iOS ecosystem can make emoji by default less relevant, these new additions always bring a little pleasure to messaging.
For those who count on shortcuts, there are also good news. Apple has added a series of new shortcut actions to its native applications, including books, short stories, safari and cards. These actions set the basics of more advanced Siri capabilities, such as integrated actions and the personal context, which could be deployed in future updates.
Apple Vision Pro App, EV routing update
IOS 18.4 also presents a new Apple Vision Pro application, designed to help professional vision users to discover content, spatial experiences and advice for using their devices. In addition, Apple Maps should improve its EV routing function in the United States, especially for Ford drivers. The update will allow Apple Maps to recognize that some Ford vehicles can charge at Tesla Nacs stations, not only CCS stations, which allows owners of electric vehicles to plan their trips.
