Apple rolls out iOS 18.1 developer beta 2 with AI features

Apple has released the iOS 18.1 beta 2 for developers, following the initial release of a set of artificial intelligence features with the iOS 18.1 beta. The new beta does not expand the suite of artificial intelligence features, but it brings forward features previously introduced in the standard iOS 18 beta cycle. Additionally, it introduces new regional English language support for Apple Intelligence.

The iOS 18.1 beta cycle is only for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. Only these devices support Apple Intelligence.   

Based on user feedback, Apple has made various adjustments to the redesigned Photos app. It is reported that the company has removed the new Carousel view feature in iOS 18.1 developer beta 2, following similar changes made in the iOS 18 developer beta 5 last week. Carousel view allowed users to swipe and view picture highlights that were updated daily.

In the iOS 18.1 developer beta 2, Apple has come up with the new Distraction Control feature. This feature lets users remove certain elements from a webpage that might be distracting. These elements include sign-in pop-ups and overlays.

Apple has also introduced support for more localised English language dialects to its Apple Intelligence features. The localization options include Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, India, and Singapore, in addition to the U.S., UK, and Australia, which were added initially.  

Reports also reveal that Apple is introducing Apple Intelligence features in the European Union (EU) with iOS 18.1 developer beta 2.

Apart from these changes, iOS 18.1 developer beta 2 introduces some user interface improvements. For instance, notifications from apps with a Dark Mode icon enabled will now display the new icon in the notification bar instead of the regular bright icon. Apple has also added a new toggle for enabling Bluetooth in Control Center, separate from the general communication controls.