iOS 18.4 Beta 1: New Features and Installation Guide
Apple’s latest release, iOS 18.4 beta 1, marks an exciting turn in its software development, inviting both developers and the public to explore its innovations without the traditional fee barrier. This update brings a series of intriguing features and enhancements that promise to reshape the user experience on iPhones. From new app default settings to innovative image generation styles, iOS 18.4 beta 1 showcases Apple’s commitment to evolving its platform. As users dive into this beta phase, they can anticipate discovering fresh functionalities, including enhanced notification management and ambient music options, setting the stage for a more personalized and engaging interaction with their devices.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| iOS 18.4 Beta Release | Released for developers; public participation allowed without fees. |
| Installation Instructions | Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for updates. |
| Visual Intelligence | Not available for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max in this beta version. |
| Default Translation App | Users can select a new default app, but not available in the U.S. until final release. |
| Default Apps Selection | U.S. users can choose default apps under Settings > Apps > Default Apps. |
| Navigation App Changes | EU users can choose Google Maps instead of Apple Maps for navigation. |
| Image Playground Changes | Introduces a new Sketch style for image generation. |
| Priority Notifications | Shows important notifications first; enable via Settings > Notifications. |
| Ambient Music Options | Four sound categories added to Control Center: Sleep, Chill, Productivity, Wellbeing. |
| Siri Updates | No new features; still cannot sift through messages or emails. |
| Privacy Dots Update | Privacy dots are now more visible when using the camera or microphone. |
| Emoji Keyboard Update | Genmoji icon now shows the name for easier identification. |
| Podcast App Changes | New settings options available in the Podcast app under your initials. |
| Cellular Data Box | Shows real-time signal strength in the Control Center. |
Getting Started with iOS 18.4 Beta 1
Apple has just released iOS 18.4 beta 1, and it’s exciting news for developers and everyday users! Now, anyone can try out the latest features without having to pay to be a developer. If you want to install this beta version, just go to Settings, then General, and look for Software Update. You might see a prompt to download the update right away! If not, make sure you tap on iOS 18 Developer Beta to check for it.
Once you’re in the Software Update menu, make sure that your phone is set to iOS 18.4 Developer Beta. If everything looks good, tap the back button and follow the instructions on your screen. Using beta software can be fun because it lets you try out new features before they’re available to everyone else. Just remember, since it’s a beta, some things might not work perfectly!
New Translation Features in iOS 18.4
One of the exciting new features in iOS 18.4 beta 1 is the ability to choose a different default Translation app instead of just using Apple’s Translate. However, this cool option won’t be available in the U.S. until the final version of iOS 18.4 is released. This means you can set Google Translate as your go-to app for translations, which is great for anyone who needs quick and easy language help!
For iPhone users in the U.S., you can head to Settings, then Apps, and select Default Apps to change your preferred choices for things like messaging and browsers. Soon, you’ll be able to swap out Apple Translate for another app that you like better. This change shows how Apple is listening to users and making their devices even more customizable and user-friendly.
The Image Playground Gets Creative
Another fun update in iOS 18.4 beta 1 is the addition of a new style called Sketch in the Image Playground. This feature allows you to create images with a special sketch effect, making them look like they were drawn with colored pencils! For example, if you ask for a picture of a traffic light, it might look like something from a children’s book, which is really cool for creative projects.
In addition to the Sketch style, the Image Playground still has the Animation and Illustration options. The Animation style gives your images a cartoonish twist, while Illustration makes them look like they belong in a storybook. This variety means you can choose the style that best fits your needs, whether you want something playful or artistic!
Prioritize Your Notifications with Ease
With iOS 18.4 beta 1, you can now prioritize your notifications so that the most important ones show up first on your lock screen. This is a great way to make sure you don’t miss messages or alerts that matter the most. To enable this feature, simply head to Settings, then Notifications, and toggle on Prioritize Notifications.
In addition to prioritizing notifications, this beta version includes a new Ambient Music option in the Control Center. You can choose from four different sound categories: Sleep, Chill, Productivity, and Wellbeing. This feature makes it easy to set the right mood for your activities, whether you’re trying to focus on homework or relax before bed!
Exploring Enhanced Privacy Features
iOS 18.4 beta 1 also brings some important updates to privacy features, especially with the visibility of privacy dots. These dots show you when your camera or microphone is in use, and they’ve been made more visible against a black background. This change helps users be more aware of their privacy, ensuring they know when their devices are listening or watching.
Keeping your personal information safe is very important, and Apple is making strides to enhance that security. With these new updates, users can feel more confident that they are in control of their privacy while using their iPhones. Apple’s focus on privacy is just one of the many reasons that people choose to use their devices!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is iOS 18.4 beta 1?
iOS 18.4 beta 1 is an early version of Apple’s iOS 18.4 update, allowing developers and public testers to try new features before the official release.
How can I install iOS 18.4 beta 1?
To install iOS 18.4 beta 1, go to Settings > General > Software Update if you’re in the iOS 18 Beta Program.
What new features are in iOS 18.4 beta 1?
New features include selecting a default Translation app, Sketch style in Image Playground, Priority Notifications, and Ambient Music options.
Can I change my default apps in iOS 18.4 beta 1?
Yes, U.S. iPhone users can choose default apps for various functions under Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
Will U.S. iPhones get a default navigation app option?
Currently, it’s unclear if U.S. iPhones will gain this feature. It depends on future updates from Apple.
What is the new Sketch style in Image Playground?
The Sketch style allows users to create images that look like colored pencil drawings, adding variety to the existing animation and illustration styles.
How do I enable Priority Notifications in iOS 18.4 beta 1?
To enable Priority Notifications, go to Settings > Notifications > Prioritize Notifications and toggle it on.
Summary
Apple has launched iOS 18.4 beta 1, which developers and the public can install for free. To update, users should go to Settings > General > Software Update. This beta version introduces a new option to select default translation apps, though it won’t be available in the U.S. until the final release. Additionally, the beta adds a new image style called Sketch in the Image Playground and enhances the Priority Notifications feature, which prioritizes important alerts on the lock screen. Users can also explore new ambient music options and improved visibility for privacy indicators.
