Apple has rolled out the second developer beta of iOS 18.4, packed with upgrades like Visual Intelligence for iPhone 15 Pro, a dedicated Apple Vision Pro app, and fresh Emoji characters. Here is what you need to know.
Visual Intelligence Now Works on iPhone 15 Pro
Previously limited to the iPhone 16 lineup, Visual Intelligence is now accessible on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Users can activate it via the Action button, Control Center, or Lock Screen. The feature, which uses AI to enhance photo analysis, also got a new toggle in the Control Center alongside Type to Siri and Talk to Siri.
Priority Notifications, another Apple Intelligence tool, now lets users customize settings for individual apps. This means you can prioritize alerts from Messages while muting others like WhatsApp.
Apple Vision Pro App Arrives for iPhone
The new Apple Vision Pro app helps users manage their headset directly from their iPhone. It displays the device’s serial number, offers setup guides, and recommends curated content like 3D movies and immersive games. A “Discover” section highlights apps and experiences, including spatial videos and photos from AppleTV+ shows like Severance and Shrinking.
Guest Mode allows friends to try the headset without a full setup, making it easier to share the Vision Pro experience.
New Emoji and App Store Controls
Unicode 16’s Emoji characters are finally here. Look for the root vegetable, shovel, harp, and tired face with eye bags. The Syrian flag has been updated, and the Sark flag is now available.
Downloading apps on iOS 18.4 beta 2 feels smoother too. A “Pause” button lets users halt installations or updates mid-process, useful for managing storage or data usage.
EV Routing and Shortcuts Upgrades
Apple Maps may soon warn EV drivers about Tesla charging adapters. Code in the beta hints at alerts like “Tesla NACS Adapter Required” for routes needing compatibility. This will help Ford Mustang Mach-E and other EV owners plan trips better.
The Shortcuts app now includes actions for Safari, like blocking pop-ups and closing tabs. These updates align with Apple’s promise to let Siri handle in-app tasks using App Intents later this year.
Minor but Meaningful Tweaks
- RCS Messaging: France’s Orange network now supports RCS, joining select US carriers.
- Wallet App: A new menu icon simplifies access to subscriptions and payment settings.
- Language Support: VisionOS 2.4 adds Spanish and Italian, while the Spatial Gallery app organizes spatial photos and behind-the-scenes content.
When Will These Features Go Public?
Apple plans to release iOS 18.4, visionOS 2.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4 in April 2025. Siri’s major overhaul, however, remains delayed until May 2025.
For developers and beta testers, this update fixes earlier bugs, including boot loops on older devices like the iPhone 12.
End Note
iOS 18.4 beta 2 focuses on refining Apple Intelligence and expanding Vision Pro’s ecosystem. While Siri fans might feel sidelined, the update offers practical tools for photographers, EV drivers, and app enthusiasts.
Stay tuned to The Tech Basic for more details as Apple’s beta cycle progresses.