Apple has released the first public betas of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, allowing public beta testers to try the software ahead of its planned October launch.
Public beta testers can now choose between the standard beta track or the new Apple Intelligence beta. However, Apple Intelligence features will only work on certain devices: the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, the recently launched iPhone 16 series, or Apple Silicon-powered iPads and Macs.
Apple Intelligence features
iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 are the first versions to introduce Apple Intelligence features.
- Some of these features are already available, including Writing Tools, an updated Siri design, and the ability to switch between voice commands and typing with Siri.
- Other new functions include content summaries, improved Mail categories, smart replies in Mail and Messages, and more.
Some Apple Intelligence features, such as Image Playground, Genmoji, ChatGPT integration, object erasing in Photos, Priority Notifications, and enhanced Siri capabilities, will roll out later this year or early next year.
All iOS 18.1 users now have access to phone call recording and transcriptions, with recordings saved in the Notes app. However, summarization of those calls requires Apple Intelligence. The update also introduces spatial photo functionality for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.
Availability
Public beta testers enrolled in Apple’s beta program can download the iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 updates by going to the Settings app, selecting “General,” then “Software Update,” and enabling the Public Beta option.