iOS 18.2 public beta released, but with an additional waiting list

Apple has released the public beta version of iOS 18.2 with all advanced Apple Intelligence features, ahead of the stable launch in December.

In Short

• iOS 18.2 beta version is out for public
• The stable version will launch in the first week of December
• For the new image tools, Apple has scheduled an additional waiting list

The next wave of Apple Intelligence -- iOS 18.2-- is speculated to arrive in the first week of December. Now that the launch is approaching, Apple is constantly testing the upcoming features to improve the user experience. With the beta version, anyone who has requested or signed up for the beta version will get to experience the new Apple Intelligence features, but here is the catch. The new AI-powered image editing tools, like Image Playground, Genmoji and Image Wand, require an additional waiting list.

How to access it?

Unlike the initial iOS 18.1 AI features, which had relatively short wait times, the new image tools come with a longer waitlist process.

To access them, users can install the iOS 18.2 beta, open the Image Playground app, or use the Genmoji feature in the emoji keyboard to request access. After submitting your request, you'll be placed on a waitlist, and this time, the delay could extend for several weeks.

But why this wait? Apple is being cautious during this beta phase to ensure the tools function correctly, meet expectations, and prevent misuse. Many AI tools, especially those that generate images, have been misused in harmful ways previously. Users have created misleading deepfakes, inappropriate versions of well-known content, and other objectionable AI-generated materials. Hence, the caution is a well-appreciated move that will help create a safe space, at least from Apple's POV.

iOS 18.2 upcoming features

The iOS 18.2 update promises a range of exciting features, designed to enhance both productivity and personalisation for iPhone users. One notable addition is built-in ChatGPT, offering on-demand AI assistance directly within iOS. This feature allows users to ask questions, generate text, or get quick help, seamlessly integrated across various apps. Another unique feature, Genmoji, lets users create custom, AI-powered emojis, providing a fun way to express themselves with unique, personalised icons that go beyond standard emoji options. Read more about iOS 18.2 here.

For creatives, the new Image Playground feature is a highlight. This tool enables users to experiment with images in creative ways, whether applying filters, generating artwork, or editing with AI tools. The Image Playground is geared toward casual and professional users alike, giving them a more dynamic approach to photo and image editing directly on their iPhones.

Another most talked about feature coming in iOS 18.2 is Visual Intelligence. Available on iPhone 16, this feature identifies objects and locations. By long-pressing the Camera Control button and pointing your phone, you can access details like hours and reviews for restaurants, copy or read text aloud, search items on Google, and ask ChatGPT about objects.