Just one day after the release of the candidate version of iOS 18.1, Apple (AAPL, Financials) has unveiled the first beta of iOS 18.2, with key artificial intelligence technologies, including connection with OpenAI's ChatGPT, are introduced in the upgrade.
Users may ask Siri questions they cannot know, which will be sent to ChatGPT. Users are informed, and then Siri responds before launching searches. For instance, ChatGPT's superior language and reasoning skills will allow Siri to request a recipe for certain items.
Another function is Visual Intelligence, which lets the iPhone's camera recognize things and provide details. Along with other things, this on-device artificial intelligence can recognize pet breeds and read posters. Processing happens via Apple's Private Cloud Compute architecture or on the device. This function seeks to improve access for those with visual or hearing disabilities.
The update also presents "Image Playground," Apple's text-to-image creation tool that lets users design personalized emojis and turn drawings into polished graphics. Users must apply for access as this function is being tested right now.
The Mail app now gets a revised design with sections for updates, transactions, and primary emails.
