Apple’s iOS 18.2 update is shaping up to be one of its most innovative releases, pushing the boundaries of what users can do with artificial intelligence directly on their devices. With the rollout of the second developer beta, Apple has given a deeper look at the advanced AI capabilities that will soon be available to iPhone and iPad users. This update is not just about performance improvements but marks a meaningful shift towards a future where AI tools are seamlessly integrated into the operating system.
Among the standout features in iOS 18.2 is the integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which will be accessible through Siri. This move promises to transform how Apple users interact with virtual assistants by providing access to advanced conversational AI within Apple’s built-in ecosystem. The partnership with OpenAI is not a financial one; instead, Apple gains the appeal of enhanced AI functionality, while OpenAI benefits from direct exposure to a global user base.
In iOS 18.2, Apple has added a usage limit reminder for ChatGPT, encouraging users to subscribe for $19.99 per month.
If users don’t subscribe and hit the daily quota, Siri won’t be able to use GPT for complex queries.
It’s unclear if Apple will take a cut from these… pic.twitter.com/K2BQijlhT5
— Jack Anderson | AI (@Fetch_AINews) November 5, 2024
This could ultimately boost subscriptions to ChatGPT Plus, OpenAI’s premium service. Users will have the option to access ChatGPT’s capabilities directly through Siri, but those looking for unlimited access to the most advanced features will need to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus, which Apple has embedded within iOS’s Settings app for easy management.
Daily Usage Limits and ChatGPT Plus Subscription
For those on the free version of ChatGPT, there will be a daily limit on advanced feature usage. When users exceed this cap, they will be switched to a basic version of the AI for the rest of the day. For those who subscribe to ChatGPT Plus, these restrictions are removed, allowing access to the full capabilities of the advanced models, faster response times, and exclusive features like image generation and advanced voice responses.
Priced at $20 per month, ChatGPT Plus can now be subscribed to directly from within the iOS Settings app, streamlining the process and reducing the need to access external websites or apps.
The integration of ChatGPT into iOS also brings a new level of convenience. For the first time, users will be able to manage their AI subscriptions within the Settings app, eliminating the need for third-party apps and making it simpler to upgrade, downgrade, or cancel the service. Apple’s approach here demonstrates its commitment to making high-quality AI tools more accessible while keeping the experience smooth and user-friendly.
New AI-Powered Features: Genmoji and Image Playground
Apart from the ChatGPT integration, iOS 18.2 brings several other notable additions aimed at enhancing creative expression and customization. The new “Genmoji” feature allows users to create AI-generated emojis based on their descriptions.
Embedded in the default iOS keyboard and Messages app, Genmoji enables users to create emojis tailored to specific conversations or emotions, offering a fun and personalized messaging experience. This feature is simple to use: users only need to type a description of the emoji they want, and Apple Intelligence generates it instantly, providing several options to choose from.
Just loveeeeeee iOS 18.2!!! Those genmojis are great!!! 🤭 #ios18.2 #genmoji pic.twitter.com/ccRFk3uuA4
— IgnotusPerevell (@IgnotusPerevell) November 5, 2024
In addition to Genmoji, iOS 18.2 introduces Image Playground, an app that leverages AI to generate images based on user prompts. This app is also accessible within Messages, letting users create animated or illustrated images to share in their conversations. Users can either enter descriptions to create new images or use photos from their library to modify existing ones.
While not photo-realistic, the animated style of Image Playground brings a unique, creative flair, making it ideal for sharing in a casual context. Image Playground also includes the “Image Wand” feature, allowing users to sketch ideas in Notes and transform these rough drawings into refined images.
Enhancements to Visual Intelligence and Writing Tools
Another addition to iOS 18.2 is the “Visual Intelligence” feature, which leverages AI to analyse images or text captured with the iPhone’s camera. For example, users can point their camera at text to get an instant summary, translation, or additional details. This tool can even read text aloud, making it useful in situations where hands-free operation is needed, such as following recipe steps in the kitchen. Visual Intelligence reflects Apple’s focus on making AI a practical, intuitive part of everyday activities.
The update also includes improvements to Writing Tools, which help users adjust the tone and structure of their text to fit different contexts. With these tools, users can create drafts that are more formal, casual, or even summarised versions of their original text, making it ideal for situations where communication needs to be fine-tuned without rewriting content manually. The improvements here highlight Apple’s efforts to bring AI-enhanced productivity features directly to its users, potentially increasing their appeal to students and professionals.
Privacy and Security Focus
In line with Apple’s reputation for user privacy, the iOS 18.2 update comes with assurances that ChatGPT usage remains private. Users can engage with ChatGPT without signing in, meaning Apple Intelligence can use the AI without storing personal data. However, if users opt to sign in, their conversations will be saved and accessible across devices, following OpenAI’s data policies. This flexibility allows users to choose the level of privacy they prefer while still making the most of AI capabilities within iOS.
Looking Forward to iOS 18.2
iOS 18.2 is expected to launch in early December, with rumours suggesting a first-week release. This update is not just a collection of new features but represents Apple’s strategic move toward integrating powerful AI tools directly into iOS.
The inclusion of ChatGPT Plus, alongside Genmoji, Image Playground, and Visual Intelligence, points to a future where AI is a core part of Apple’s mobile experience, assisting with everything from daily tasks to creative projects. Apple’s strategy of embedding AI tools in a way that feels natural and unobtrusive aligns well with its brand philosophy and may set a new standard for AI integration in mobile operating systems.
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