iOS 18.2 public beta rolls out; here’s how to install the update

Nearly two weeks after releasing the developer beta (and a little over a week after releasing iOS 18.1), Apple has finally released the first public beta version of iOS 18.2. The update builds on the features offered by Apple Intelligence (first rolled out with iOS 18.1) – including ChatGPT integration for Siri, Genmoji, and Image Playground, as well as new Camera Control button features. Read on.

Features to look out for on the iOS 18.2 public beta 1 update

Here’s a quick breakdown of everything Apple has in store for you with the iOS 18.2 public beta 1 update.

Image Playground, Genmoji, and Image Wand

First off, as part of the Apple Intelligence suite, there is Image Playground. This feature, similar to image generators such as DALL-E 3 and Midjourney, allows you to generate images based on textual inputs. That’s not all though.

ALSO READ: iOS 18.2 makes finding lost items with an AirTag easier

The feature also includes two sub-features – Genmoji and Image Wand. Genmoji allows you to create custom emojis that you can use in apps such as Messages, Notes and Keynote, to make your conversations and notes truly personalised. Image Wand, on the other hand, allows you to transform rough doodles into a proper image on the Notes app. This feature is somewhat similar to Smart Script on iPadOS 18.

ChatGPT integration on Siri

Speaking of image (and text generation) OpenAI’s ChatGPT has now been integrated into Siri. It offers its assistance on more complex queries that one may have, which Siri may not always be able to process. user’s request. ChatGPT has also been integrated within Apple’s Writing Tools, for text generation, summarisation and modification.

Visual Intelligence

Next up, there is Visual Intelligence. The Google Lens-like feature allows you to point your iPhone to any objects or places to quickly get relevant information about the same online. What’s cool is, in addition to searching for it on the web, your iPhone can also ask ChatGPT about it for more information. Bear in mind that this feature is exclusive to the iPhone 16 series, as it requires the Camera Control button to use.

Other features to look out for

Speaking of Camera Control, with a light tap on the button, users can now lock the exposure and focus on their devices, such that the device maintains these settings even as one adjusts their position and angles.

Additionally, iOS 18.2 allows users to share the location data of a lost item with others via a link, which can be accessed even if they’re not using an Apple device.

How to install the iOS 18.2 public beta 1 update on your iPhone

1. On your iPhone, head to the Settings app.

2. Tap on ‘General’ and then on ‘Software Update.’

3. Here, tap on the ‘Beta updates’ option, and then select ‘iOS 18 Public Beta’

4. Move back to the ‘Software Update’ page. Here, the download should appear now.

5. Agree to the terms and conditions, and begin to download the update.

ALSO READ: iOS 18.2 may show the estimated charging time of your iPhone

And that’s it. You’re all set! Installation of the update should begin automatically after the download has begun. Just ensure your iPhone has over 50 per cent battery, and that it is connected to a stable and fast Wi-Fi connection.