Sometimes, Apple would begin testing the x.1 model of a brand new iOS launch proper after the principle launch. We anticipated the iOS 18 beta to proceed by the summer time till its launch in September, adopted instantly by the iOS 18.1 beta. Then, iOS 18.1 could be launched in October, and 18.2 beta testing would start, and so forth.
This yr may be very totally different. Greater than a month forward of the anticipated iOS 18 launch, Apple has begun an iOS 18.1 beta check. It was made out there for builders on July 29 and just for gadgets which can be suitable with Apple Intelligence (iPhone 15 Professional and Professional Max, M-series iPads) and it’s not but identified if or when it will likely be out there to public beta testers.
Discover out every little thing that you must know in regards to the subsequent iPhone replace in our iOS 18 superguide.
Up to date August 28: The third developer beta of iOS 18.1 has been launched for iPhone 15 Professional and Professional Max, and it provides the “Clear Up” Apple Intelligence software in Images.
iOS 18.1: New options
Apple’s largest iOS 18 characteristic is Apple Intelligence, a collection of AI instruments and Siri enhancements that will likely be unique to the iPhone 15 Professional and Professional Max, in addition to later iPhones. Apple Intelligence is coming to Macs with Apple Silicon as properly.
Apple Intelligence options are coming in form of a phased rollout: some options have been supposed to be out there with the launch of iOS 18, some later this yr, and a few in an replace within the spring of 2025. Apple’s plans have modified a bit, with the primary wave of Apple Intelligence options coming in iOS 18.1, which is able to in all probability launch in October. We have now a information to which options are coming at what time.
The next options can be found within the preliminary iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 beta check:
- AI writing instruments
- New and improved Siri
- Mail options like sensible replies and e-mail summaries
- Pure language in images
- Name recording and transcription
- Safari net web page summaries
- Clear Up software in Images
The next options aren’t within the iOS 18.1 beta:
- ChatGPT integration
- Picture Playground
- Genmoji
- Superior Siri options like on-screen consciousness, private context, and actions inside apps
The picture options have been stated to reach at launch, however more moderen studies say it can come later this yr in iOS 18.2 or 18.3. ChatGPT integration ought to arrive round that point, too. The superior Siri stuff is coming in early 2025.
Beta 2 added the iOS 18 modifications that got here in iOS 18 beta 5. Specifically, some enhancements to the brand new Images app interface and Safari’s “Disguise Distracting Gadgets” characteristic. There are new splash screens all through iOS to explain new options in numerous apps.
Beta 3 added the “Clear Up” software in Images, however not one of the different generative AI picture capabilities.
iOS 18.1: Necessities
The iOS 18.1 beta is at present locked behind a waitlist. Customers who obtain the iOS 18.1 developer beta will likely be greeted with the next message:
iOS 18.1 beta is an early preview of an replace to iOS 18 that will likely be out there later this fall. This beta introduces an preliminary set of options powered by Apple Intelligence.
To attempt the Apple Intelligence beta, be part of the waitlist in Settings and you can be notified as quickly as it’s prepared in your gadget. Each gadget language and Siri language have to be set to US English, and gadget area have to be set to United States.
As famous, Apple Intelligence is just out there on the iPhone 15 Professional and iPhone 15 Professional Max in U.S. English in america area. It can’t be put in within the EU or China.
iOS 18.1: Easy methods to set up the beta
The iOS 18.1 beta is at present solely out there for builders, however anybody can nonetheless get it. Starting with iOS 17, you don’t have to be within the $99 per yr developer program to entry the developer beta. A free developer account will do. You may get one by way of Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Right here’s tips on how to do it by way of the Apple Developer app:
- Obtain the Apple Developer App from the App Retailer.
- Open the app.
- Faucet on Account.
- Register utilizing your standard Apple ID.
Registered builders can select to get the iOS 18.1 beta as a substitute by going to the Settings app, then Basic > Software program Replace, and deciding on iOS Developer Beta within the Beta Updates tab. Once you return to the principle Software program Replace display screen, you’ll Improve to iOS 18 on the backside of the display screen below the Additionally Out there heading. Faucet that and it’ll take you to the iOS 18.1 beta.
As all the time, keep in mind to again up your iPhone prior to installing the beta.