iOS 18.4 Developer Beta 1: Enhancements in Apple Intelligence and Apple News+

Apple has launched the inaugural developer beta of iOS 18.4, unveiling new functionalities and upgrades throughout Apple Intelligence, Apple News+, and the larger Apple ecosystem. Although there were expectations for enhancements to Siri that have yet to materialize, this update still introduces significant modifications, encompassing broader language support for Apple Intelligence and a novel food-centric section in Apple News+. Below is an overview of the features included in iOS 18.4.

Apple Intelligence: Enhanced Language Support and Priority Notifications

Expanded Language Offerings

Apple Intelligence, the generative AI solution from Apple, initially supported US English. With the introduction of iOS 18.2, Apple extended this support to various regional English dialects. Now, the iOS 18.4 developer beta further advances this capability by incorporating localized English support for users in India and Singapore.

Moreover, Apple Intelligence is being offered in eight additional languages:

• Chinese (Simplified)
• French
• German
• Italian
• Japanese
• Korean
• Portuguese (Brazil)
• Spanish

At this stage, these languages are available solely in the developer beta, with plans for public rollout in April. This expansion dramatically improves accessibility and convenience for global users.

Priority Notifications

iOS 18.4 features a new capability called Priority Notifications, aimed at assisting users in better handling their notifications. By activating this option within Settings > Notifications, users can highlight essential alerts, ensuring they remain informed of crucial updates. Apple’s AI software smartly organizes and showcases these notifications on the Lock Screen, minimizing clutter and enhancing efficiency.

Apple Vision Pro: A Dedicated New Application

Users of Apple Vision Pro can now utilize a dedicated Apple Vision Pro app, which automatically syncs with iPhones logged into the same Apple account as the headset. For those who do not see it automatically, the app can also be downloaded for free from the App Store.

Features of the Apple Vision Pro App

• User Guide: Offers detailed instructions on utilizing Apple Vision Pro.
• Device Information: Displays important information such as the serial number.
• Content Suggestions: Features curated lists of immersive experiences, including over 300 3D films.
• Spatial Gallery: A centralized collection for spatial videos and photos.
• Guest Mode: Allows users to test the headset without completing the full setup process.

This application improves the user experience for Apple Vision Pro owners by consolidating essential information and content into a single, easy-to-navigate hub.

Apple News+ Introduces a Culinary Section

Subscribers to Apple News+ now have access to a new food-centric feed, which offers:

• Recipes tailored for at-home chefs.
• Restaurant Reviews to assist users in finding new dining establishments.
• Kitchen Tips designed to enhance culinary skills and techniques.

This addition transforms Apple News+ into a more well-rounded lifestyle resource, catering to food enthusiasts seeking inspiration and expert guidance.

Enhancements in Control Center

The iOS 18.4 update introduces new Ambient Music controls in the Control Center. These features enable users to quickly access specific Apple Music playlists categorized by various moods:

• Chill: Relaxing and soothing melodies.
• Productivity: Upbeat tracks for maintaining focus and efficiency.
• Sleep: Gentle sounds to aid with sleep.
• Wellbeing: Mindful sounds to promote relaxation.

Users have the flexibility to customize these controls and assign their preferred playlists, streamlining music management.

Additional Minor Improvements

In addition to major features, iOS 18.4 brings forth several smaller enhancements:

• Apple Maps: Introduction of a new Preferred Language option for improved navigation aid.
• Apple Wallet: Inclusion of support for Japan’s My Number Card for digital identification purposes.
• CarPlay: The addition of a third row of icons for better app organization.
• Keyboard: The term “Genmoji” now replaces the previous emoji icon.
• Mobile Device Management (MDM): Administrators have the ability to disable Apple Intelligence reports, email summaries, Smart Replies, and automated iPhone reboots.
• Podcasts Widgets: Introduction of two new widgets: Library (for saved items) and Shows (for quick access to favorite podcasts).
• Siri: Introduction of two new Australian voice options for a more localized touch.
• Privacy Improvements: Updated privacy indicator dots now feature a black background for enhanced visibility.

While these tweaks may appear minor, they collectively enhance the overall user experience and reflect Apple’s ongoing dedication to improving iOS.

Updates to Other Apple Platforms

Apple Vision Pro and VisionOS 2.4

The VisionOS 2.4 developer beta brings Apple Intelligence capabilities to Apple Vision Pro, providing advanced AI-assisted tools for the headset. Users will gain access to:

• Writing Tools: AI-enhanced writing functionalities.
• Image Playground: A creative tool for AI-driven image editing.
• Genmoji: Custom-generated AI emojis.

Apple plans to launch VisionOS 2.4 to the wider public by April 2025, making Apple Intelligence extensively available for all Apple Vision Pro users.

iPadOS and macOS Updates

• iPadOS 18.4 now features on-device email categorization, powered by machine learning.
• macOS Sequoia 15.4 also introduces the same email categorization capability, previously exclusive to iPhone.

These updates facilitate improved email management across Apple devices, enabling users to organize their inboxes with greater efficiency.

Conclusion

Although iOS 18.4 does not deliver the anticipated Siri improvements, it still offers meaningful enhancements. With increased language support for Apple Intelligence, Priority Notifications, a dedicated Apple Vision Pro application, and a culinary-focused Apple News+ section, this update enhances the iPhone experience. Additional modifications, from refined Control Center music options to subtle user interface tweaks, illustrate Apple’s commitment to usability and personalization.

As Apple continues to advance its AI-driven features, upcoming updates promise even more intelligent, user-centered experiences across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When will iOS 18.4 be released for public use?

Apple has not specified an exact launch date, but based on past beta testing cycles, iOS 18.4 is anticipated to be available to the general public in April 2024.

2. Which iPhone models support iOS 18.4?

The iOS 18.4 update is compatible with devices as old as the iPhone XR and iPhone XS, though Apple Intelligence features are limited to newer models like the iPhone 16 series and iPhone 15 Pro.

3. What exactly is Apple Intelligence?

Apple Intelligence refers to Apple’s generative AI system, created to enhance the user experience through intelligent features such as Priority Notifications, Writing Tools, and Image Playground.

4. How can I activate Priority Notifications?

To activate Priority Notifications, navigate to Settings > Notifications and enable the option labeled Prioritize Notifications. This feature helps emphasize crucial alerts on your Lock Screen.

5. What is the purpose of the new Apple Vision Pro app for iPhone?

The Apple Vision Pro app offers device information, user guides, content suggestions, and a Guest Mode for trying the headset without needing full installation. It is available by default for Apple Vision Pro users or can be downloaded for free from the App Store.

6. What new content does Apple News+ offer in iOS 18.4?

Apple News+ now features a food section that includes recipes, restaurant reviews, and kitchen tips. However, this feature is available exclusively to Apple News+ subscribers.

7. Are there improvements for Siri in iOS 18.4?

Siri was projected to receive enhancements in iOS 18.4, but those updates have been postponed. Nonetheless, Apple Intelligence is evolving, indicating that future updates may offer improvements to Siri’s functionality.