Everything new in iOS 18.4 beta 2

Apple continues to refine its latest software update with the release of iOS 18.4 beta 2 for developers. The second beta introduces several refinements, setting the stage for the public rollout anticipated in April. From AI-driven notifications to expanded Visual Intelligence support, here’s a detailed breakdown of the most notable changes in iOS 18.4 beta 2.

Apple Vision Pro App Debuts

A new ‘Apple Vision Pro’ app makes its way to iPhones in iOS 18.4 beta 2. Designed for Vision Pro users, the app provides insights into spatial experiences, device tips, and content discovery. Complementing this update, visionOS 2.4 beta 2 introduces the ‘Spatial Gallery’ app, which aggregates spatial photos, videos, and panoramas into one convenient hub.

Wallet App Enhancements

A redesigned Wallet app interface debuts in iOS 18.4 beta 2, featuring a three-dot menu in the top-right corner for easier access to orders, settings, and a new ‘Subscriptions & Payments’ screen. This new section offers a streamlined overview of recurring Apple Pay transactions, improving financial management within the app.

Priority Notifications Refinement

Apple’s Priority Notifications feature, powered by Apple Intelligence, debuted in the first iOS 18.4 beta. The latest beta refines this functionality by allowing users to customize notification priorities. A new setting enables users to choose which apps can send Priority Notifications, ensuring that essential alerts are highlighted.

New AI and Siri Controls in Control Center

iOS 18.4 beta 2 enhances Control Center with new toggles for Siri and Apple Intelligence, streamlining access to AI-driven functionalities. The update introduces shortcuts for ‘Talk to Siri,’ ‘Type to Siri,’ and ‘Visual Intelligence,’ ensuring quicker access to AI-powered interactions across supported devices.

New Emoji Additions

Expanding its expressive capabilities, iOS 18.4 beta 2 introduces seven new emojis, including ‘Face with bags under eyes,’ ‘Fingerprint,’ ‘Leafless tree,’ ‘Root vegetable,’ ‘Harp,’ ‘Shovel,’ and ‘Splatter.’ While Genmoji has gained traction, these additions offer fresh ways to communicate through visual symbols.

Visual Intelligence Comes to iPhone 15 Pro

As previously announced, Visual Intelligence—Apple’s AI-powered toolset—has now been extended to iPhone 15 Pro users. This enhancement, accessible through the Action button and Control Center, brings sophisticated AI capabilities to a wider range of devices, making tasks like object recognition and text analysis more seamless.

Shortcuts Receive Major Expansion

Apple is laying the groundwork for Siri’s evolution with an expansion of Shortcuts actions. The latest beta includes a plethora of new automation options across apps such as Books, News, Safari, and Maps. These enhancements hint at Apple’s broader plans for in-app actions and personal context integration.