Usually, Apple would begin testing the x.1 model of a brand new iOS launch proper after the primary launch. We anticipated the iOS 18 beta to proceed via 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 obtainable 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 obtainable to public beta testers.
Discover out every part you should know concerning the subsequent iPhone replace in our iOS 18 superguide.
Up to date September 17: The fourth beta of iOS 18.1 was launched immediately to builders, and it contains builds for all iOS 18-compatible iPhone, not simply iPhone 15 Professional. Apple Intelligence options are nonetheless solely obtainable for the iPhone 15 Professional and iPhone fashions.
iOS 18.1: New options
Apple’s largest iOS 18 characteristic is Apple Intelligence, a set of AI instruments and Siri enhancements that will probably 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 effectively.
Apple Intelligence options are coming in type of a phased rollout: some options have been supposed to be obtainable 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 most likely launch in October. We’ve got 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 good replies and e mail summaries
- Pure language in pictures
- Name recording and transcription
- Safari net web page summaries
- Clear Up device in Pictures
The next AI options usually are not 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 newer experiences say it would 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 Pictures app interface and Safari’s “Conceal Distracting Gadgets” characteristic. There are new splash screens all through iOS to explain new options in varied apps.
Beta 3 added the “Clear Up” device in Pictures, however not one of the different generative AI picture capabilities.
Beta 4 added assist for older iPhone fashions. The decision recording and transcription characteristic seems to work on earlier iPhone fashions, fairly than solely on people who assist Apple Intelligence (iPhone 15 Professional and iPhone 16 fashions).
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 probably be greeted with the next message:
iOS 18.1 beta is an early preview of an replace to iOS 18 that will probably be obtainable 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 to your system. Each system language and Siri language have to be set to US English, and system area have to be set to United States.
As famous, Apple Intelligence is just obtainable 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: set up the iOS beta
The iOS 18.1 beta is at present solely obtainable for builders, however anybody can nonetheless get it. Starting with iOS 17, you don’t must be within the $99 per yr developer program to entry the developer beta. A free developer account will do. You will get one by way of Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Right here’s how one can do it by way of the Apple Developer app:
- Obtain the Apple Developer App from the App Retailer.
- Open the app.
- Faucet on Account.
- Sign up utilizing your ordinary 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 primary 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 at all times, bear in mind to again up your iPhone prior to installing the beta.
For those who would favor to keep away from the beta examine how one can replace to iOS 18 right here.