# iOS 18.4: A Preview of Siri’s Future with Improved Shortcuts Actions
Apple keeps pushing the envelope with its software updates, and the latest release of the iOS 18.4 beta 2 illustrates this trend. This version reveals promising enhancements for Siri, particularly through the Shortcuts app. With a collection of new actions for Apple applications, users can anticipate a more formidable and adaptable Siri experience shortly.
## The Advancement of Shortcuts
The Shortcuts app has revolutionized the way iOS users automate tasks and enhance their interactions with various applications. However, recent updates to the app have been rather limited. The arrival of new actions in iOS 18.4 beta 2 indicates a departure from this pattern, suggesting a more comprehensive functionality that could transform how users interact with Siri.
The App Intents system, crucial to these new Shortcuts actions, underpins the expected Siri enhancements. This system is built to empower Siri to perform a wider array of in-app and cross-app actions, boosting its functionality and reactivity.
## New Shortcuts Actions in iOS 18.4
While the most notable updates are anticipated in iOS 18.5, users of iOS 18.4 can already benefit from various new Shortcuts actions. These actions are primarily centered on altering settings within different Apple apps, giving users finer control over their app experiences.
For example, the Shortcuts app now features various actions for fine-tuning settings in Safari. Users can enhance their browsing experience by customizing options such as:
– **AutoFill Use Contact Info**: Switch whether Safari utilizes contact information for autofill.
– **AutoFill Use Credit Cards**: Adjust preferences for credit card autofill.
– **Block Pop-Ups**: Activate or deactivate pop-up blocking.
– **Close Tabs**: Specify preferences for automatic tab closure.
– **Landscape Tab Bar**: Select the arrangement of the tab bar in landscape view.
– **Open Links**: Determine how links are opened (in the same tab or a new one).
– **Private Search Engine**: Choose a search engine for private browsing sessions.
– **Safari Suggestions**: Turn on or off suggestions during browsing.
– **Search Engine**: Set the default search engine.
– **Search Engine Suggestions**: Control suggestions from the chosen search engine.
– **Tab Bar Configuration**: Tailor the appearance and behavior of the tab bar.
– **Tab Layout**: Modify the arrangement of tabs for a more customized browsing experience.
These intricate settings not only elevate user control but also pave the way for Siri’s prospective capabilities. By incorporating these actions into the Shortcuts infrastructure, Apple is preparing Siri to manage more sophisticated tasks and deliver a more intuitive user experience.
## Looking Forward: Siri’s Potential
The improvements witnessed in iOS 18.4 are merely the starting point. As Apple continues to enhance its AI features, users can expect a more astute and responsive Siri capable of performing a broader range of tasks effortlessly. The introduction of finely-tuned controls within the Shortcuts app clearly reflects Apple’s dedication to enhancing its virtual assistant.
As the launch of iOS 18.5 draws near, enthusiasm surrounding Siri’s potential is on the rise. Users are encouraged to delve into the new Shortcuts actions available in iOS 18.4 and share their experiences and insights. The outlook for Siri is bright, and with each update, Apple approaches its goal of a more competent and multifunctional digital assistant.
## Conclusion
The release of iOS 18.4 beta 2 signifies a crucial milestone in Apple’s continuous efforts to elevate Siri and the Shortcuts app. With new actions that facilitate enhanced customization and control, users can anticipate a more powerful Siri experience in the near future. As Apple forges ahead in innovation, the opportunities for automation and assistance via Siri are set to grow, rendering everyday tasks more straightforward and efficient for iOS users.
Are you eager about the new Shortcuts actions in iOS 18.4? Have you uncovered any other remarkable features? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
