As Apple continues to refine and enhance its mobile operating system, iOS 18.3 is on the horizon, promising a suite of subtle yet impactful updates. Here’s a look at what users might expect from this next iteration of iOS.
Enhanced Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.3
One of the most notable changes in iOS 18.3 is the default enablement of Apple Intelligence features. Previously, these were opt-in, requiring users to activate them manually in earlier versions like iOS 18.1 and iOS 18.2. This shift indicates Apple’s confidence in integrating and utilising its AI enhancements across the iOS ecosystem. With iOS 18.3, you can expect a more intuitive and personalised user experience immediately.
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iOS 18.3 visual Intelligence upgrades
iOS 18.3 introduces several new visual intelligence features, particularly for iPhone 16 models. Key among these is the ability to add events directly to your calendar from images, such as posters or flyers you encounter. The update will also enhance the phone’s ability to identify plants and animals, turning your iPhone into a more robust tool for daily life and exploration through iOS 18.3.
Apple’s iOS 18.3 notification summaries refinement
Apple has been addressing feedback regarding the accuracy of its Notification Summaries in iOS, particularly in response to complaints about misrepresenting news headlines. With iOS 18.3, notification summaries will feature italicised text for clarity, and there’s a new option to disable summaries for specific apps right from the lock screen. This update also temporarily turns off summaries for the News and Entertainment categories until further improvements are made.
Calculator app improvements in iOS 18.3
The Calculator app in iOS 18.3 has received a small but functional update, which comes to the Calculator app within iOS 18.3, where users can now repeat the last operation by simply pressing the equals button. Many users who rely on the calculator for repetitive calculations welcome this feature back, which was removed in a previous iOS update.
Apple Home app integration with Robot Vacuums in iOS 18.3
Although not live in the current beta, code within iOS 18.3 suggests that Apple is laying the groundwork for integrating the Home app with robot vacuums. This would allow for the control of robot vacuums similar to other smart home devices, enhancing the smart home experience by integrating these devices into scenes, automation, and Siri voice commands in iOS 18.3.
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iOS 18.3 bug fixes and minor enhancements
As with any iOS update, iOS 18.3 includes bug fixes. Notable among these are fixes for an issue where the keyboard might disappear during typed Siri requests and another where audio playback in Apple Music would not stop when the app was closed. Such fixes are crucial for maintaining the reliability and user-friendliness of iOS 18.3 software.
iOS 18.3 Release timeline and availability
Apple is expected to release iOS 18.3 to the public in late January 2025, following the release candidate phase. Retail stores prepare to update demo devices and conduct training sessions, which typically signals an imminent public release.
iOS 18.3 might not be a blockbuster update with groundbreaking features, but it aims to polish existing functionalities, enhancing user interaction and system reliability. With more seamless integration of Apple Intelligence, better notification management, and minor but valuable updates to apps like Calculator, iOS 18.3 is poised to refine the iPhone experience further. As always, users should stay tuned for official announcements from Apple regarding exact release dates and any last-minute feature additions or changes in iOS 18.3.