Apple: Apple releases iOS 18.4 Beta 3 to developers and beta testers. The update is centered on bug fixes and security patches. Unlike the last beta 2 update, which added Visual Intelligence on the iPhone 15 Pro, this update does not have any new exciting features. It instead addresses issues and enhances performance.
Bug Fixes and Improvements
The company first addresses three problems with its Intelligence suite. Users had issues with Siri when they used languages other than English. Second, some users received a "Downloading support…" message or noticed missing its Intelligence features. Third, the update corrects these bugs without the need for a device reboot.
In addition, the update resolves notification issues. It prevents notifications from flickering or collapsing briefly. Siri suggestion issues in non-English languages is also resolved. Lastly, US cellular users get back Wi-Fi calling, and it resolves an error message that occurred when users chose the Replace option after creating lists, tables, or summaries in Writing Tools.
Developer Enhancements
Apple also adds new features for developers in this update. Developers now use Nearby Interaction in the background to perform Ultra Wideband ranging. Moreover, It has introduced new StoreKit APIs that support Advanced Commerce API in-app purchases. Developers can also use the new purchase option API, introductoryOfferEligibility(compactJWS:), to set preferences for introductory offers. These changes help developers create better apps and improve user experiences.
New Features for Eligible Apple iPhones
It keeps improving user experience with new features on supported iPhones. To start, Priority Notifications automatically bring prominent alerts to the foreground with on-device processing. It then introduced a new "Sketch" style to its AI-driven image generator in addition to the current "Animation" and "Illustration" styles. Finally, Visual Intelligence arrives on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, with text summarization, translation, and phone number and email address detection. Users can access these capabilities through the Action Button.
In addition, It refreshes the Control Centre by introducing shortcut toggles for its Intelligence and Siri features, such as "Talk to Siri," "Type to Siri," and "Visual Intelligence." Lastly, the update provides new Shortcuts actions for applications like Books, News, Safari, and Maps, as well as new emojis such as Fingerprint, Leafless Tree, Harp, and Shovel.
Other Updates
With iOS 18.4 Beta 3, Apple also introduces the third developer beta releases of iPadOS 18.4, visionOS 2.4, macOS Sequoia 15.4, tvOS 18.4, and watchOS 11.4. The updates ensure it devices remain in sync and provide developers with necessary tools to enhance app performance.
