Apple’s next iOS update, version 18.2, promises to bring a serious boost in artificial intelligence capabilities, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Expected to roll out the week of December 2, 2024, iOS 18.2 marks a notable step in Apple’s AI journey, integrating the power of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, introducing tools for personalised emojis and image creation, and expanding language support. If Gurman’s timeline holds, Apple users could be exploring these fresh AI features before the year’s end.
What’s New In iOS 18.2 Update?
1. ChatGPT Integration with Siri
The standout feature of iOS 18.2 is undoubtedly the integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT within Siri. This update, aligning with user requests for smarter and more conversational virtual assistants, will elevate Siri’s capabilities to handle complex queries and deliver context-rich answers. This could reshape how users engage with Siri, making it a more interactive experience.
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2. Genmoji – Custom Emojis, Tailored Just for You
Emoji enthusiasts, rejoice! Apple’s new “Genmoji” tool is designed to let users create personalized emojis. Using AI, users can craft custom emojis, adding a personal touch to their digital conversations. This feature is likely to be popular among younger users looking to bring unique emojis into their messaging.
3. Image Playground and Image Wand
For the creative crowd, iOS 18.2 includes two exciting additions: the “Image Playground” app and the “Image Wand” tool. Image Playground is all about letting users experiment with AI-driven, cartoon-style images, while Image Wand, integrated into the Notes app, can transform rough sketches into more refined, finished images. Together, these tools could become a favourite for artists, designers, and casual doodlers alike.
4. Broadened English Dialect Support
In a move towards inclusivity, Apple is extending English language support to various dialects, including those spoken in the U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. This enhanced support will roll out alongside the U.S. English dialect, allowing for better comprehension across diverse English-speaking regions.
5. Daily Sudoku and iMessage Nudity Reporting
In a nod to gaming fans and users looking for engaging content, Apple News+ will now offer daily Sudoku puzzles to U.S. subscribers. Meanwhile, an iMessage nudity reporting option is launching in Australia, focusing on user safety and privacy.
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Upcoming: Pixelmator and a Gaming-Ready Mac Mini
Gurman’s report also touched on two broader developments in Apple’s ecosystem: Apple’s acquisition of the image-editing software Pixelmator, and a potential gaming push with the latest Mac mini. Apple’s Pixelmator buyout may signal more AI-focused editing tools in future iOS versions, as Pixelmator’s background removal and Super Resolution tools become available to a wider audience. Although Pixelmator confirmed that there are “no material changes” expected for now, the acquisition suggests a push to further bolster Apple’s creative suite.
Meanwhile, the new Mac mini with M4 and M4 Pro chips positions Apple as a potential rival in the gaming arena. Priced at $599, the base Mac mini could compete with gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, though the Apple ecosystem still needs to deepen its game library to seriously attract gaming enthusiasts.
What’s Next for iOS Users?
Looking beyond December, iOS 18.4, expected in April, may bring even more AI-centered upgrades, including a major Siri enhancement allowing the assistant to draw on user data for hyper-personalized responses. For now, though, iOS 18.2 represents a meaningful step forward, especially with Siri’s ChatGPT integration and the fun, creative tools Apple has lined up.
While Apple’s AI-driven approach is commendable, the true impact of these updates will depend on user adoption and functionality. The Pixelmator acquisition could certainly open doors to more robust AI-editing capabilities in iOS, but how the gaming push pans out remains to be seen. If Apple can continue developing its Mac gaming capabilities, the gaming community might finally have a reason to take a second look.
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