Apple Releases iOS 18 Beta 8 to Developers, Nearing Public Launch

Apple Seeds Eighth Betas of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 to Developers

Registered developers are able to opt into the betas by opening up the Settings app, going to the Software Update section, tapping on the "Beta Updates" option, and toggling on the iOS 18/iPadOS 18 Developer Beta setting. Note that an Apple ID associated with a developer account is required to download and install the beta. The iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 beta track is now separate from the iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 beta track, with the .1 betas adding support for Apple Intelligence on devices that are able to run the features. iOS 18 introduces Apple Intelligence, a set of AI features that are built deeply into the operating system. Apple Intelligence won't be coming until later in the beta testing process, but it includes features for refining and editing writing, generating images and emoji, and most notably, improving Siri and search. Siri is gaining a better understanding of natural language, improved contextual awareness, and the personal assistant will integrate with ChatGPT to answer more complex queries. Apple Intelligence features are limited to the iPhone 15 Pro models and iPads with an M-series chip, but there are a number of other features that are coming. Apple is allowing users to rearrange Home screen apps to have open spaces, plus there's a dark mode for app icons and tinting options. The Control Center is customizable and third-party developers can add controls for their apps, with the Lock Screen Flashlight and Camera icons able to be replaced or removed. Messages is gaining Rich Communication Services support to improve conversations with Android users, the option to schedule texts to be sent later, new text effects, messages over satellite when there's no cellular, and the option to use any emoji for Tapback responses. There's a dedicated Passwords app for logins, passkeys, Wi-Fi passwords, and verification codes, and there's now an option to lock and hide apps, which means they can't be opened without secondary Face ID or Touch ID authentication even when your phone is unlocked. Safari has a highlights feature that summarizes articles and surfaces key information on websites, the Photos app interface has been overhauled, and there's a new Tap to Cash feature for privately and securely transferring money using Apple Cash. Other features include equation solving and voice memo transcription in Notes, a game mode for improving game performance, and an option to respond to Siri on AirPods with head gestures. Apple will release iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 to the public this fall.

Apple Releases Beta 8 Of iOS 18 And Additional Updates To Developers, Possibly The Last Beta Ahead Of iPhone 16 Debut

Apple is on the verge of announcing the release of candidate builds of iOS 18, but we will not get it until the company debuts the new iPhone 16 lineup. However, the new iOS 18 beta 8 is here, which will possibly be the last update before the company's big 'It's Glowtime' event. Other than iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, Apple has also released beta 8 of watchOS 11. macOS 15, visionOS 2, and more updates. If you are up for it, iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 beta 8 can be downloaded on compatible iPhones and iPads through the Settings app on your device. However, as a requirement, you must link your Apple ID to your Developer Account to receive the update over the air. If you have not connected the two accounts, you will not receive the update. If you have followed the prerequisites, simply head over to the Settings app on your iPhone navigate to General > Software Updates > Beta Updates, and install the latest beta 8 on your iPhone or iPad by following the on-screen instructions. Note that the process is the same for both devices, so do not be alarmed. As mentioned earlier, Apple has also released the eighth developer build of watchOS 11, macOS 15, tvOS 18, and visionOS 2. Similar to the iOS 18 beta, these updates also require you to connect your Apple ID to your Developer account. iOS 18 is a major update that includes all the Apple Intelligence goodness, but it will not be available with the initial rollout of the software. This means that you will have to wait a few extra weeks to get your hands on Apple's AI features with the release of iOS 18.1. However, the company has added a slew of front-facing additions in iOS 18, which is one of the biggest updates Apple has released for the iPhone and iPad. Some of these features include a redesigned Control Center, which now allows you to set controls according to your preferences and add pages for more options. On the Home Screen, Apple now allows iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 users to customize the look of the app icons with numerous tools available to change the look. Also, you now also have the option to create empty spaces on the Home Screen, a change which is not big but it is a new one for iPhone users. We will keep you updated when Apple will release the updates to the general public, so be sure to stick around for more. So far we are expecting the company to seed the release candidate builds soon after the iPhone 16 launch event.