iOS 18.2 is here with Apple Intelligence image generation features in tow

Apple’s iOS 18.2 adds AI features, custom emojis, ChatGPT integration, and usability upgrades, with expanded language support coming in 2024.

: Apple's iOS 18.2 update introduces powerful Apple Intelligence features, initially available in six English-speaking countries for iPhone 15 Pro and newer models. The update includes Image Playground for generating AI images, Genmoji for creating custom emojis, and ChatGPT integration with Siri and Writing Tools. Additional improvements include AirTag location sharing, Sodoku puzzles for News+ subscribers, and lock screen volume controls. Apple plans to expand language support throughout next year, with an initial update in April adding support for eight additional languages.

Apple has released iOS 18.2 and iPadOS 18.2, introducing significant Apple Intelligence features primarily available to users in the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. The update, reported by senior journalist Igor Bonifacic, brings groundbreaking AI functionalities with English language restrictions. Key highlights include Image Playground, a feature exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro, 16, and 16 Pro models, which generates images through Messages and a standalone app.

The innovative Image Playground cannot produce photorealistic human images to prevent confusion, but allows users to generate images based on conversation contexts, custom prompts, or existing camera roll photos. Another notable feature, Genmoji, enables users to create custom emoji by describing desired characters or using friends' pictures as starting points. The update also integrates ChatGPT capabilities with Siri and Writing Tools, allowing users to complete tasks like creating itineraries or workout plans through OpenAI's servers with user permission.

Additional enhancements include AirTag location sharing with friends and airlines, daily Sodoku puzzles for News+ subscribers, and the return of volume controls to the lock screen. While currently limited to specific regions and English, Apple plans to expand language support throughout next year, with an initial update scheduled for April. This update will introduce support for Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese languages, broadening the accessibility of these new AI features.