With Thursday’s introduction of the release candidates for iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2, we’re likely a week away from the debut of the second wave of Apple Intelligence features, including Genmoji, the Image Playground and more.
Release candidates for watchOS 11.2, tvOS 18.2 and visionOS 2.2 also went out.
iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2 release date is almost here
Release candidates are what Apple used to call golden masters, and give third-party software developers and other beta testers an opportunity to look over the final version of operating systems before they’re introduced to average users.
A benefit for all is that OS final versions almost always go out exactly a week after the release candidate. That means we can be fairly confidant that iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2 etc. will premiere on Thursday, December 12. That said, Apple could surprise us and release them as early as Monday, Dec. 9, but quickly rushing out the final versions somewhat defeats the goal of giving third-party developers time to test their software with the release candidates and make any necessary changes.
Another advance as that RCs give us a sneak peek at the release notes revealing what features Apple thinks are most important. For example, the one for iOS 18.2 says:
“This update introduces new features powered by Apple Intelligence, the personal intelligence system that unlocks powerful new ways to communicate, work, and express yourself, all while protecting your data with an extraordinary step forward for privacy in Al.
“New features include Image Playground which lets you create delightful, fun images, Genmoji to create original emoji to share with family and friends, ChatGPT support integrated right into Siri and Writing Tools, and more. This release also includes Visual intelligence with Camera Control, enhancements to Mail, Photos, Safari, and other features, bug fixes, and security updates for your iPhone.”
Bring on Apple Intelligence phase 2
The set of AI-powered tools dubbed Apple Intelligence was the star of Apple’s developer conference in June, but Cupertino said from the start that the features will launch in phases. The launch of iOS 18.1, macOS Sequoia 15.1 and iPadOS 8.1 in October brought Writing Tools and the picture Clean Up tool.
iOS 18.2, macOS Sequoia 15.2 and iPadOS 8.2 include the Image Playground app and Genmoji, which allow users to create images or personified emojis based on user instructions. Optional integration with ChatGPT is another feature.
Visual Intelligence is also included in iOS 18.2, but only when running on iPhone 16 models. Which brings up an important point: most of the best new features in this upcoming iOS version are part of Apple Intelligence and therefore work only on the iPhone 15 Pro models and the iPhone 16 series.
The new AI features are more widespread in Mac and iPad as they’re available for any device running an M-series processor. Still, that eliminates tablets with A-series chips, including entry-level iPads.
