iOS 18.1 has only just been released, but there is already news about what the subsequent iOS 18.2 update will have in store. In addition to AI-supported features, the update also includes practical improvements such as restructured mail management and the introduction of prioritized notifications. Find out here when the update will be released and which functions will be available in Germany.
Apple Intelligence and AI Integration: New Possibilities for Your iPhone
With iOS 18.2, Apple wants to further expand its AI-supported functions. New features include "Image Playground" and "Genmoji". The "Image Playground" allows users to create creative animations, sketches or illustrations within seconds that are integrated directly into apps such as Messages and Mail. "Genmoji" goes a step further and lets users create their own emojis by simply entering text.
The integration of ChatGPT also makes Siri more powerful: Siri can now process more complex queries and provide detailed answers and contextual information. What is particularly exciting is the ability to not only create text with ChatGPT, but also generate image descriptions - ideal for creative projects or spontaneous ideas.
In Germany, however, some of these features may initially only be available to a limited extent. Apple plans to gradually introduce Apple Intelligence features in other countries, although Germany may benefit somewhat later.
New features for the camera: Improved control and visual intelligence
With iOS 18.2, Apple is introducing some exciting camera upgrades - exclusively for iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro. One of the highlights is the new two-step shutter button. This function allows you to fix the focus and exposure on a subject with a light press before taking the picture with a full press - ideal for users who value precise shots.
Another new feature is "Visual Intelligence": this feature allows users to access additional information about their surroundings via the camera. For example, if you point the camera at a restaurant, the "Visual Intelligence" displays information such as opening hours or reviews. It can also identify objects such as dog breeds or landmarks and offers a real-time connection to third-party apps that can provide additional details. However, it seems that these features will not be available worldwide at first and in Europe in particular the rollout may come later.
Redesigned Mail app: Improved organization and overview
iOS 18.2 brings a completely redesigned Mail app that makes organizing and managing emails much easier. The new Mail app automatically categorizes incoming emails into different groups such as "Primary" for personal and important messages, "Transactions" for order confirmations, "Updates" for notifications, and "Promotions" for marketing emails. This makes it easier to keep track of things and quickly access relevant emails. Another practical feature is the new "Digest View," which summarizes emails from a specific sender and thus provides a quick overview.
Priority Notifications: Important notifications at a glance
With iOS 18.2, Apple introduces the “Priority Notifications” feature, which always displays important notifications at the top of the Notification Center.Whether it's a message from a contact or an app alert, prioritized notifications ensure you don't miss any important information and always have an eye on what's important. This new feature makes it easier for users to manage their notifications more efficiently and focus on the relevant information without being distracted by a flood of less important messages.
Other useful features in iOS 18.2
In addition to the major updates, iOS 18.2 also brings some smaller but practical improvements. One of the new functions is the volume limit: In the settings, you can now set the maximum volume for media, which is particularly useful for preventing hearing damage or protecting children from loud content. iOS 18.2 also offers the option of individually setting default apps for phone calls and messages - a feature that Apple users have long been missing and which now offers more flexibility in everyday life.
Conclusion: Availability and release date for iOS 18.2
Apple plans to release iOS 18.2 to the public in December 2024. As usual, the first devices to receive the update will be the latest iPhone models, starting with the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 series. The rollout will be gradual so that older models will also receive the update over time. Users can rest assured that all essential system updates and security improvements will be available worldwide, including Germany.
However, a staggered rollout is planned for some of the new Apple Intelligence features, such as ChatGPT integration and Image Playground. These features may not be activated in Germany until later, as Apple rolls out availability on a country-specific basis and prioritizes English-speaking countries first.
