New Apple beta updates: iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1 and macOS

The updates can be downloaded to a compatible device through the Settings app. Previous versions of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 required a device that supports Apple Intelligence, but the new updates are now available for all devices that support iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia 15. Note that Apple Intelligence features still require an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 16 on iOS, and a Mac or iPad with Apple silicon on Mac and iPad.

Apple Intelligence includes writing tools that are available wherever text can be selected and edited. They can be used to check spelling, check grammar, rephrase with a new tone, and summarize text.

Siri has a new design with a subtle glow around the display, and there’s a “Type to Siri” feature so you don’t have to speak to Siri. Siri can still maintain context between requests and follow you if you stumble over your words. Safari can summarize articles, and there’s a new Focus mode to reduce interruptions.

Smart replies are available in Messages and Mail. The Mail app highlights time-sensitive messages and places them at the top of your inbox. Photos has a feature called Memory Movie to create slideshows based on text descriptions. You can also record, transcribe, and summarize calls. These transcription and summarization features are also available for all audio recordings.

Features like Image Playground and Genmoji as well as other new Siri features have not yet been implemented.

Apple has separated Apple Intelligence into a separate set of betas because these features are not included in the initial releases of iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia. Apple Intelligence will be released to the public in October after a developer testing period.