Apple has launched iOS 18.2, an update packed with new features and improvements covering everything from Apple Intelligence to improvements to the camera and apps like Mail and Safari. This update enhances the user experience in multiple areas and introduces innovative ways to use your iPhone.

Availability and compatible devices

iOS 18.2 starts rolling out today. To install the update, go to Settings > General > Software UpdateIt may take time to appear for some users, so keep an eye out throughout the day.

Compatible devices for iOS 18.2 include:

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• iPhone XR, XS and XS Max
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 and 12 Mini, as well as 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 and 13 Mini, as well as 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14 and 14 Plus, as well as 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, as well as 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, as well as 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (second and third generation)

Note that the most advanced features of Apple Intelligence are exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 models.

What's new in iOS 18.2?

iOS 18.2 includes a range of innovations that improve user interaction with both hardware and software. Here are the most prominent features and what they mean for users.

Apple Intelligence: Smart features in focus

Apple continues to expand its AI-powered features during Apple Intelligence umbrellaIn iOS 18.2, we see the introduction of three main features: Image Playground, Gene Emoji and ChatGPT integration.

1. Image Playground
   A creative and playful app that lets you create unique images based on concepts or descriptions.
   • Use photos from your own library or descriptions to generate images.
   • Experiment with different styles like animation or illustration.
   • Photos are automatically synced via iCloud and can be used in Messages, Freeform, and third-party apps.
   • Speed and simplicity are key – creations are generated directly on the device without the need for cloud processing.
2. Gene Emoji
   A new feature to create personalized emojis:
   • You can create emojis directly from the keyboard and customize them to your liking.
   • Genmoji are saved to your sticker drawer and synced to your Apple devices via iCloud.
3. ChatGPT integration with Siri
   Apple has integrated OpenAI's ChatGPT into Siri and other typing tools:
   • Questions can be asked directly to ChatGPT via Siri, making it easier to get complex answers.
   • No login is required, and usage is anonymous. If you choose to log in, you can take advantage of advanced features like saved conversations.
   • The integration is a powerful way to supplement Siri's capabilities, especially in situations where Siri doesn't deliver optimal responses.

Camera Control and Visual Intelligence

The camera on iPhone 16 and later models receives several improvements that leverage advanced technology to provide a better user experience:

• Visual Intelligence
  • A long press on the camera control activates a function that analyzes the object or location you point the camera at.
  • You can get information about the object directly, with the option to use Google Search or ChatGPT for in-depth information.
• Two-stage shutter
  • Now you can lock focus and exposure with a simple tap on the camera control before taking a picture.
• Automatic camera opening
  • A single tap on the camera control opens the camera app, even if your iPhone screen is turned offThis can be adjusted in Settings.

Mail app redesign

The Mail app in iOS 18.2 has received a major update to make email management easier and more organized. New features include:

1. Email categorization
   Email is now divided into four categories:
   • Primarily: Personal and important emails.
   • Transactions: Receipts and confirmations.
   • Updates: Social messages and news.
   • Campaigns: Marketing and offers.
2. Manual recategorization
   If an email is misplaced, you can manually change its category, which will be saved for future messages from the same sender.
3. Summary view
   All emails from a specific company are now displayed in a consolidated view, making it easy to get an overview.

Photos app improvements

The Photos app, which received a major redesign in iOS 18, has been further improved in iOS 18.2 based on user feedback. Here are some of the changes:

• Video playback now has a feature to scroll frame by frame.
• Navigation in collection views is smoother, and you can swipe right to return to the previous view.
• The Favorites album now appears in the Utilities collection view, making it easier to find your favorite photos.

Find My and location sharing

The Find My app has gained new tools to help users locate lost items:

• You can now create a link that shares the location of a lost AirTag or other item. This link can be shared with others, who can use an interactive map to help you find the item.
• Apple is also working with more than 15 airlines to implement systems to track lost luggage.

New features in Safari

Safari has become even more customizable and user-friendly:

• Customize your home screen with new wallpapers.
• Import and export browser data, making it easier to switch between different browsers.
• Live activities allow you to track file downloads directly via Dynamic Island or on the home screen.

Other improvements and bug fixes

• Voice memos: Support for layer recordings and direct import into Logic Pro.
• Volume control: You can now permanently display the volume control on the lock screen.
• New shortcuts: The Fitness app and Podcasts app have gained more customization options.
• Bugs fixed: Issues with recently taken photos and long exposure night mode photos have been fixed.

Summary and user experience

iOS 18.2 is a major update that not only builds on the improvements from iOS 18.1, but also introduces new ways to use your iPhone. Features like Genmoji and Image Playground demonstrate Apple’s strength in creative AI, while improvements to the Mail and Photos apps make everyday use easier and more seamless.