Discover the Latest Features in Apple's Latest Beta Releases for iPhone, iPad, and macOS Sequoia

Apple Beta Season Brings Exciting New Features

Apple's beta season is in full swing, offering users the chance to test out some of the latest features. The integration of Apple's betas across platforms eliminates the need to discuss Mac, iPad, and iPhone separately. These devices now function as part of a cloud-based platform, working together seamlessly. This is particularly beneficial for users with multiple Apple devices. However, one feature that won't be available for testing anytime soon is the new AI capabilities. Apple is taking a cautious approach to ensure these features are fully ready before they are released.

"The more we see of generative AI in consumer-facing roles, the more we see that most tech companies are working with the same flawed product. Apple doesn't want to be associated with that kind of bad press, and they aren't going to add those features until they're sure that they're ready," Soumya Mahapatra, CEO of medical device company Essenvia, told Lifewire via email.

Exciting New Features in iOS 18 Beta 2

One of the major new additions in iOS 18 beta 2 is iPhone mirroring. This feature allows users to display a virtual version of their iPhone on their Mac's screen, enabling interaction with the iPhone using a mouse. For instance, if your iPhone is in another room, you can easily access it on your Mac. Additionally, you can engage in activities like having a WhatsApp conversation on your phone through your Mac. To utilize this feature, you will need to run iOS 18 beta 2 on your iPhone and macOS Sequoia beta on your Mac.

Another feature available for testing in iOS 18 beta 2, particularly for US users, is RCS messaging. Carriers are enabling support for RCS, the successor to SMS, allowing features like images, replies, emoji responses, encryption, and typing indicators. Although users with green bubbles will still have them, they can now integrate smoothly with other conversations and group chats.

Apple has also revamped the Photos app in iOS 18, organizing everything in a more customizable format. Users have the option to reorder sections and hide those they don't want, providing a personalized experience. In addition, Apple has introduced Genmoji, AI-generated emojis that users can create by describing their desired emoji.

Furthermore, the latest updates include enhanced home-screen customizations that enable users to layout icons and widgets according to their preferences. App icons can now be colored to a certain extent, and users can even hide app names for a minimalistic look. Additionally, the Control Center can be customized by rearranging icons, offering a more tailored experience.