What iOS 18.3 Beta 1 is hiding for AI fans

The first beta of Apple iOS 18.3 has been released, introducing new AI features, several changes, and important bug fixes. While Apple Intelligence was initially expected to be fully integrated into iOS 18.1 and 18.2, some features were not included and are anticipated in this update.

iOS 18.3 Beta 1 is currently the only version available, and it features the ability to generate images from sketches using the Image PlayGround. An X user, ShrimpApplePro (@VNchocoTaco), shared details about code updates related to the AI’s “Image Diffusion Personalized Sketch” model. This functionality, which was showcased during WWDC 24, allows users to transform simple sketches into polished images on the go through the “Image Diffusion Personalized Sketch” model.

The beta also improves the Genmojis feature by allowing users to select their skin tone when creating new emojis—a capability that began with iOS 18.2. The Notification Summary feature of Apple Intelligence has also been updated to provide shorter, clearer summaries of grouped notifications and lengthy messages while addressing previous issues where sensitive messages were included in the summaries.

Following feedback from users about screen unresponsiveness and battery drain experienced in iOS 18.2, YouTuber iDeviceHelp tested the iOS 18.3 Beta 1 and reported that these issues seem resolved, although further testing is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of these fixes.

Additionally, the update includes fixes to the Writing Tools API, ensuring that third-party applications can utilize it without encountering errors. Critical security fixes are also included in this release.

Apple has released only the iOS 18.3 Beta 1 version so far, with plans for two more beta versions and a release candidate to follow. The final update is expected by late January or early February, depending on whether beta 4 or RC 2 releases are necessary before the final version.

Featured image credit: Kerem Gülen/Ideogram