Apple has released the second beta of iOS 18.4. The new version is currently available to developers and brings with it some changes. In addition to improved management of "Prioritize Notifications", there are new functions for the Control Center, support for Visual Intelligence on the iPhone 15 Pro and optimizations in apps such as Wallet and Apple Maps. A new Apple Vision Pro app is also part of the update. iOS 18.4 is scheduled to be officially released to all users in April. Until then, the beta version offers first insights into the upcoming features. Here are all the details about iOS 18.4 Beta 2.
Beta versions of iOS allow developers to test new features early on. Even if they are not always error-free, they show the direction in which the system is developing. Those who use beta versions can familiarize themselves with the upcoming innovations and help Apple fix any errors by providing feedback. iOS 18.4 Beta 2 focuses on improvements that are intended to make everyday life with the iPhone easier. The new control options for Siri and Apple Intelligence in particular could be of interest to many users. There are also optimizations for Apple Maps, Wallet and the Shortcuts app.
What's new in iOS 18.4 Beta 2
availability and build number
iOS 18.4 Beta 2 is currently only available to developers. A public beta is expected to follow in the coming days. The build number of this version is 22E5216h.
Notification prioritization now individually customizable
With iOS 18.4 Beta 1, Apple introduced "Prioritize Notifications." This feature uses Apple Intelligence to prioritize important notifications. In the new beta version, users can now decide for themselves which apps are considered to be prioritized. In the settings, there is a list of all installed apps from which you can individually select which notifications should be given priority.
Visual Intelligence on the iPhone 15 Pro
Apple has now brought the announced Visual Intelligence to the iPhone 15 Pro. The function can be activated via the action button or the control center.
New buttons in the Control Center
The Control Center has new options for faster access to Apple Intelligence. Especially on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 models, there are now additional switches for Siri and Visual Intelligence. New additions include:
- Talk to Siri
- typing Siri requests
- Visual Intelligence
The Talk to Siri switch was originally introduced with iOS 18.1, but is now more prominently placed in the Control Center.
Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone
With iOS 18.4, Apple is bringing the new Apple Vision Pro app to the iPhone. The app serves as a central platform for Vision Pro users and offers access to various content, tips and instructions. The Spatial Gallery app was also introduced with visionOS 2.4 Beta 2. It brings together spatial photos, videos and panoramas in one place.
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Seven new emojis for iPhone users
iOS 18.4 Beta 2 brings seven new emojis:
- Face with dark circles under the eyes – An emoji that represents tiredness or exhaustion
- Fingerprint – Can be used for identity, security or digital authentication
- Leafless tree – Often symbolizes winter or environmental changes
- Root vegetables – An addition to the food emojis that could represent beets, for example
- Harp – A musical instrument that plays a role primarily in classical or cultural contexts
- Shovel – A tool used in both construction and gardening
- Splash – Can be used in many ways, such as for water, movement or creative representations
Despite the increasing importance of Genmojis, Apple remains true to the classic emojis and regularly adds to the existing selection.
New Siri Shortcuts for Apple Apps
Apple improves the Shortcuts app and adds new automations for system apps. Users can now create new Siri Shortcuts for the following apps:
- books
- News
- safari
- cards
These changes appear to pave the way for future in-app actions and deeper Siri integration.
Wallet app with new menu structure
The Wallet app has a revised menu. There is now a three-dot menu in the top right corner that makes it easier to access various options. The following areas can now be accessed via this menu:
- orders
- Settings
- Subscriptions & Payments
Apple has announced that all subscriptions and recurring payments authorized with Apple Pay will be displayed in this area in the future. However, this feature is not currently active.
Apple Maps with improved EV routing for Ford drivers
The update brings an important improvement for electric car drivers, especially for Ford users. Apple Maps can now recognize that certain Ford models can use not only CCS charging stations, but also Tesla NACS stations. This makes route planning for electric vehicles even more precise.
iOS 18.4 Beta 2 brings improvements in many areas
iOS 18.4 Beta 2 brings many small but useful innovations. The ability to customize priority notifications provides more control over important messages. The introduction of Visual Intelligence on the iPhone 15 Pro expands the device's possible uses. The control center gets new Siri options, the Wallet app is clearer and Apple Maps improves routing for electric cars. There are also seven new emojis and additional Siri shortcuts for Apple apps. Since iOS 18.4 Beta 2 is still in the testing phase, there may be further changes before the final version in April. However, the current beta already gives a good impression of what users can expect from the upcoming update. The best accessories in one place: Our Amazon Storefront offers you top products, also for your HomeKit! (Photo by Unsplash / Paolo Giubilato)
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