Apple has begun rolling iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2 to iPhones and iPads. The updates bring with them major enhancements to the company’s suite of AI features, and are likely the final software releases Apple has planned for 2024. More Apple Intelligence features are available through macOS 15.2.However, note access to all of the AI features mentioned below is limited to users in the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the UK for now, with support additionally limited to devices with thier language set to English.
Provided you own an iPhone 15 Pro, 16 or 16 Pro, one of the highlights of iOS 18.2 is Image Playground,which is available both as a standalone app and Messages extension. If you go through the latter, the software will generate image suggestions based on the contents of your conversations. Naturally, you can also write your own prompts.It’s also possible to use a photo from your iPhone’s camera roll as a starting point. However, one limitation of Image playground is that it can’t produce photorealistic images of people. That’s by design so that the resulting images don’t cause confusion. You can also import any pictures you generate with Image Playground to Freeform, Pages and Keynote.
Another new feature, Genmoji, allows you to create custom emoji. From your iPhone’s emoji keyboard,tap the new Genmoji button and then enter a description of the character you want to make. Apple Intelligence will generate a few different options, which you can swipe through to select the one you want to send. It’s also possible to use pictures of your friends as the starting point for a Genmoji.
Those are just some of the more notable Apple Intelligence features arriving with iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2. If you don’t own a recent iPhone or iPad,the good news is that both releases offer more than just new AI tools.One nifty addition is the inclusion of new AirTag features that allow you to share the location of your lost item trackers with friends and airlines. If you’re a News+ subscriber, you also get access to daily Sudoku puzzles. Also new to iOS 18.2 is a feature Apple removed with iOS 16. A new menu item in the operating system’s Settings app allows you to add volume controls to the lock screen.
If you live outside of one of the countries mentioned at the top, support for additional countries and languages, including Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish and Portuguese, will roll out throughout next year, with an initial update slated for April.
How do Apple’s new personalization features like Image Playground adn Genmoji enhance user engagement compared to previous updates?
Interview: Apple Intelligence Features and iOS 18.2 with Tech Expert Jane Doe
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today,Jane.Apple has recently rolled out iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2, packed with exciting new AI features. Can you share your initial thoughts on what’s new and meaningful in this update?
Jane Doe (Tech Expert): Absolutely, it’s great to be here! The rollout of iOS 18.2 is indeed a landmark moment for Apple, especially with the introduction of Image Playground and Genmoji. Thes features not only enhance user engagement but also signify Apple’s commitment to integrating AI into everyday communication. Image Playground generates personalized image suggestions based on conversation context, and Genmoji allows users to create custom emojis. This level of personalization is a compelling shift in mobile user experience.
Editor: That’s engaging! Can you elaborate on how Image Playground works and its limitations?
Jane Doe: Certainly! Image Playground functions as a standalone app or as an extension within Messages, allowing users to generate images by simply interacting in their chats. You can input prompts or use an existing photo from your camera roll. However, it’s crucial to note that this tool is designed to avoid generating photorealistic images of people, which helps prevent potential misuse or confusion.This limitation reflects Apple’s ethical approach to AI advancement.
Editor: Speaking of Genmoji, how does this feature stand out in the crowded market of emoji creation apps?
Jane Doe: Genmoji sets itself apart by allowing users to create emojis that are personal and contextually relevant. Users can either describe the character they envision or use images of their friends to generate emojis. This level of creativity caters to individual expression and adds a social dimension to otherwise standard emoji communication. Apple is harnessing emotional engagement here, which is a smart move.
editor: You mentioned that accessibility to these features is currently limited to certain countries. What are the implications of this geographical limitation for Apple and its users?
jane Doe: The current limited rollout to the US, UK, Australia, and a few other regions can create a sense of exclusivity, which may build anticipation among users in other countries. However, it can also lead to frustration among potential users in regions like Europe or Asia where support for multiple languages will come later. Apple does plan to expand access throughout 2024, which shows their intent to globalize their technology further.
Editor: In your opinion, how do these updates position Apple in the competitive AI landscape?
Jane Doe: Apple’s ongoing enhancements in AI, especially with features like image Playground and Genmoji, signify a strong investment in user-centric technology. Compared to its competitors, Apple seems to be focusing on integrating AI seamlessly into the user experience rather than just having flashy features. This approach could foster brand loyalty by deepening user engagement and satisfaction.
Editor: Besides these AI features, what other updates should users look forward to in iOS 18.2?
Jane Doe: Users should definitely check out the new AirTag functionalities, which allow friends and airlines to share the location of lost items. This type of practical utility can really enhance the value of Apple’s ecosystem. Additionally, News+ subscribers can enjoy daily sudoku puzzles, which is a fun yet intelligent addition. The return of volume controls to the lock screen is a noteworthy usability update as well.
Editor: What practical advice can you offer to our readers wanting to maximize these new features?
Jane doe: For users to fully enjoy the capabilities of Image Playground and Genmoji, I recommend them to explore creative prompts and use their own images to generate personalized content. Communities often share their creations, so engaging with online communities can inspire users. Additionally, staying updated on Apple’s future expansions for language support is crucial, as it’ll open these features up to a wider audience.
Editor: Thank you, Jane, for sharing your insights today. It’s exciting to see how these new features will evolve and impact user experience.
jane Doe: My pleasure! I’m excited to see how users adapt to and utilize these new tools moving forward. Thank you for having me!