The recent rollout of iOS 18.2 made quite an impact, particularly for devices equipped with Apple Intelligence. This update introduced several cutting-edge features including dedicated image generation capabilities via Image Playground and Genmoji, an enhanced Mail experience, and improved management of default applications. Now, attention turns to the forthcoming update for iPhones: iOS 18.3. Developers received the initial beta version on December 16, and as of January 17, we are now at the third beta iteration. However, it appears that this update may not introduce a plethora of new features; it seems more focused on subtle tweaks and bug resolutions.

Current Developments and Features in iOS 18.3

As updates progress, Apple might incorporate additional features, but early versions indicate limited new additions. The significant enhancements we anticipate, particularly for Siri, are likely reserved for iOS 18.4. Here’s a look at the features emerging from the initial developer beta.

Robot Vacuum Integration in the Home App

One exciting addition to the Home app is the support for robot vacuums. First hinted at during iOS 18’s unveiling in June, the launch was postponed. Recent findings in the iOS 18.3 beta code suggest that support for these devices is imminent. Users will soon be able to control essential functions of their robot vacuums, such as power management and cleaning modes, while also integrating them into automations and responding to Siri commands.

Temporary Halt on AI News Summaries

Apple’s experimentation with AI news summaries has faced some hurdles. Following a misinterpretation of a significant BBC report, the company has temporarily disabled AI-generated summaries for news notifications in the latest beta. The intention is to refine the AI’s performance before reintroducing this feature. Users are now cautioned to validate AI-generated headlines, which now appear in italics for differentiation.

Returning Feature: Continuous Calculations

The second beta of iOS 18.3 has reinstated the long-missed feature of continuous calculations. This means that users can continue multiplying by tapping the equals key, a functionality that was unexpectedly removed in the previous update.

Genmoji Added to Messages Sidebar

In an effort to enhance user convenience, Genmoji has been situated within the Messages sidebar, offering an additional route for creation outside the conventional emoji keyboard.

PDF Modification Notifications

When dealing with PDFs, users will now receive a warning indicating that the cropped content remains accessible in certain applications, thereby ensuring users are informed about the visibility of their document information.

Potential New Invites Application

Within the latest beta, evidences point to the potential launching of an “Invites” application that may function as a meeting planner. This app could sync with Apple’s GroupKit and manage RSVP statuses among invitees.

User Feedback for AI Image Generation

With the aim of continuously improving AI image generation, iOS 18.3 allows users to provide feedback through a thumbs-up or thumbs-down system regarding the images or emojis produced by Image Playground and Genmoji.

Camera Control Enhancements

A subtle but notable adjustment includes the introduction of dark mode options for the camera settings icon on iPhone 16 devices, bringing it in line with the rest of the interface.

Bug Fixes Underway

The first developer beta of iOS 18.3 introduced fixes for a couple of bugs from prior versions. One rectifies an issue with Genmoji’s functionality, while another addresses a limitation in the Writing Tools API concerning third-party applications.

Genmoji Expanding to macOS 15.3

While not applicable to iPhones, macOS users can look forward to Genmoji support in the upcoming macOS 15.3, enhancing the platform’s interactive experience.

How to Install iOS 18.3

Currently, iOS 18.3 remains in beta status and should only be installed with caution. Intended mainly for developers to test applications, this version might not be viable for daily use due to the potential for unexpected issues. For those willing to explore, backing up important data beforehand is strongly advised. To install, visit developer.apple.com with your Apple ID, or enroll for the public beta via beta.apple.com. Then navigate to Settings > General > Software Update to select either the developer or public beta and follow the prompts to complete the installation.