Apple is set to release its latest software update, iOS 18.3, by the end of January. While this update might not include groundbreaking changes like its predecessors, iOS 18.1 and iOS 18.2, it delivers several important improvements, particularly for iPhones supporting Apple Intelligence, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 lineup. From enhanced Visual Intelligence features to long-awaited bug fixes, here’s a detailed look at what you can expect.
Key Features of iOS 18.3
1. Apple Intelligence Enabled by Default
Apple Intelligence, the company’s advanced AI system, will be turned on automatically after you update a compatible device to iOS 18.3. This feature enhances tasks like generating text suggestions, identifying content, and creating visual assets.
If you prefer not to use Apple Intelligence, you can opt-out by navigating to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri. This ensures complete control over the tools on your device.
2. Upgraded Visual Intelligence
Visual Intelligence, introduced in iOS 18.2, now boasts two key improvements:
- Add Events from Scanned Images: Users can now create calendar events directly from scanned posters, flyers, or similar content. The process is more streamlined with the addition of a Create Event action item, eliminating the need to manually extract dates and times.
- Identify Plants and Animals: Visual Intelligence can now identify various plants, flowers, and animals. This is a valuable addition for users passionate about gardening or wildlife exploration.
3. Enhanced Notification Summaries
Apple Intelligence-driven Notification Summaries have undergone several updates:
- Italicized Summaries: Summaries now appear italicized on the Lock Screen and in the Notification Center, making them visually distinct from regular notifications.
- Quick Summary Management: Users can turn notification summaries on or off for individual apps directly from the Lock Screen or Notification Center. Simply swipe left on a summary, tap Options, and adjust settings as needed.
- Unavailable Alerts for Some Apps: Some news and entertainment apps will no longer support Notification Summaries due to accuracy concerns. If an app’s summaries are temporarily unavailable, a notice will appear in Settings > Notifications > Summarize Notifications.
4. Calculator Improvement
A long-requested feature makes its return in iOS 18.3: the ability to repeat the last operation using the equals sign (=). This small but impactful change is a welcome addition for users who rely on the Calculator app for quick calculations.
Other Noteworthy Updates
- Camera Control Adjustment: The AE/AF Lock feature in Camera settings has been renamed to Lock Focus and Exposure for clarity. The updated description now provides clearer instructions for activating and using this feature.
- Genmoji Button in Messages: On devices with Apple Intelligence, creating Genmojis is easier than ever with a new option located behind the Apps (+) button in Messages.
Bug Fixes and Security Patches
As with any iOS update, Apple has included various bug fixes and security enhancements. Highlights include:
- Fixing an issue where the keyboard might disappear when initiating a Siri request via text.
- Resolving an issue where audio playback in Apple Music would continue until a song ended, even after the app was closed.
Apple’s security updates will address recently discovered vulnerabilities, though specifics will only be disclosed after the stable release.
What’s Missing?
While iOS 18.3 brings several improvements, some anticipated updates have been delayed. For instance, new emojis from Unicode 16 are expected to roll out with iOS 18.4.
How to Prepare for iOS 18.3
To ensure a smooth update process, follow these steps:
- Backup Your Data: Use iCloud or iTunes to create a backup before updating.
- Free Up Space: Check your device storage to ensure there’s enough room for the update.
- Enable Automatic Updates: Go to Settings > General > Software Update and toggle on Automatic Updates to download and install iOS 18.3 as soon as it’s available.
Final Thoughts
While iOS 18.3 might not revolutionize your iPhone experience, it introduces meaningful updates that enhance functionality and usability, especially for devices equipped with Apple Intelligence. Whether it’s the improved Visual Intelligence features, more intuitive Notification Summaries, or long-awaited bug fixes, this update ensures a smoother, more efficient user experience.
Stay tuned for the update’s release and make the most of these new features!
