Exploring iOS 18.2 Beta 2: All New Features and Enhancements

Apple has released the second beta of iOS 18.2 for developers, introducing several noteworthy features and enhancements for iPhone users. This update builds upon Apple’s ongoing efforts to enhance the user experience, particularly through the refinement of Apple Intelligence capabilities, and includes significant changes in the Find My app, Camera Control upgrades for iPhone 16 users, and various improvements across the system. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what’s new in iOS 18.2 beta 2.

Key Features and Changes in iOS 18.2 Beta 2

Apple Intelligence Integration

One of the standout features in iOS 18.2 beta 2 is the expanded integration of ChatGPT within Siri. Users can now manage their ChatGPT subscriptions directly from the Settings app, enabling them to access the premium ChatGPT Plus features. The Settings app also provides insights into usage, including how close users are to their limits. The ChatGPT section now outlines the limits for free users while offering an upgrade option to the paid plan, which costs $19.99 per month for unlimited access.

Find My App Enhancements

The Find My app has received a significant upgrade, allowing users to share the location of lost items with a trusted person or airline. This feature generates a shareable link that can be accessed on non-Apple devices, ensuring broader accessibility. The shared links expire after one week or once the item is recovered. Additionally, a new option allows users to display contact information about the item, facilitating easier communication between owners and helpers.

Camera Control Improvements for iPhone 16

For iPhone 16 users, iOS 18.2 beta 2 introduces critical enhancements to Camera Control. Users can now lock auto exposure and focus settings with a light press of the Camera Control button. This feature, which is disabled by default, can be activated in the Settings under the Camera Control menu. Furthermore, the update allows users to adjust the double-click speed of the Camera Control, providing options for Default, Slow, and Slower speeds, enhancing user customization for camera operation.

Updates to Settings and Mail Apps

The Settings app now features icons that align more closely with the home screen’s tint, particularly noticeable in Dark Mode. In the Mail app, a new setting enables users to show notification badges exclusively for unread messages in the “Primary” category, enhancing the user experience by reducing notification clutter.

Additional Features

iOS 18.2 beta 2 also improves overall battery life and device temperature management. Users can now use iPhone Mirroring while sharing a hotspot connection with a Mac, a feature that was previously unavailable. The update includes new Shortcut actions for the Fitness app, allowing users to access specific fitness settings quickly. Moreover, residents of Utah under 17 will automatically have web content restrictions enabled, in compliance with state regulations.

Changes for EU Users

In compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, iOS 18.2 now requires users to select a default browser when opening Safari, a change aimed at enhancing user choice and competition in the digital marketplace.