Apple Launches First iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 Public Betas for Testing

On July 15, Apple released the first beta versions of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 to public beta testers. This marks the first time that the new software has been made available to the general public since the January Worldwide Developers Conference. Apple has released three developer betas so far, and the content in the first public beta is identical to that in the developers' third beta.

Public beta testers registered for Apple's beta testing program can download the iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 upgrades by opening the Settings app, navigating to General, tapping into the Software Update area, and selecting the iOS 18 Public Beta option. This process is repeated until the user has successfully downloaded the updates, as per MacRumors.

It is essential to remember that betas may contain bugs, battery problems, and other challenges; therefore, install the software on a secondary device or create a backup if you need to revert to iOS 17.

Apple Intelligence, an artificial intelligence technology tightly embedded into the operating system, was introduced in iOS 18. At this moment, not all of the capability is available; however, it does include Writing Tools that allow you to rewrite, polish, proofread, and summarize text across all software applications. Additionally, Image Playground will enable you to make graphics that are unique to your needs. The Genmoji function allows users to create their emoji, and Siri is currently undergoing a complete redesign. It is essential to take note that Apple Intelligence is not yet available in beta.

In addition to the artificial intelligence features, which will only be available on the iPhone 15 Pro models and iPads from the M-series, iOS 18 introduces a revised Home Screen that can rearrange app icons and widgets with open spaces. Additionally, there is a tint option and new darker colors for Dark Mode.

Your Control Center has been redesigned, and the new Controls Gallery allows you to select and choose which controls you wish to be shown in the central location. Numerous pages are available for grouping controls related to one another and customizing sizes. As part of this update, you can change the icons that appear on the Lock Screen, such as the Camera and Flashlight. Additionally, you can select Control Center options for the Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro.

You can send messages via satellite, the Messages app allows you to schedule texts, and the Tapback feature allows you to use any emoji you choose. In addition to formatting options such as bold and italic, you can apply text effects to any word, phrase, or emoji for your convenience. Apple now supports RCS for Android users, so you won't have any problems exchanging images and files. Additionally, you will be able to see typing indicators and read receipts, and you will be able to send texts over Wi-Fi.

Safari can summarize webpages and display vital information to you at a glance. Additionally, the Photos app has been redesigned to emphasize displaying your most impressive photographs. To simplify access to your saved passwords and logins, a specialized app called Passwords has been developed. Additionally, you can lock any application using Face ID or Touch ID.

There are many new features introduced in iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 that are not discussed in this article; thus, if you are interested in a more comprehensive look, be sure to check out our roundups of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 here.