Apple Unveils iOS 18.4: Key Features, Enhanced Apple Intelligence, and More
Following a month of beta testing, Apple has officially launched iOS 18.4 for all compatible iPhones. This latest update introduces a variety of thrilling new features, enhanced Apple Intelligence functionalities, and upgrades to current apps and services. With improved audio experiences, new emojis, and added language support, iOS 18.4 stands out as one of the most comprehensive updates in recent times.
Here’s an in-depth overview of what’s new in iOS 18.4.
Enhanced Apple Intelligence Support
A highlight of iOS 18.4 is the expanded availability of Apple Intelligence. While the complete range of AI-driven features is still in the works, Apple has made substantial advancements in this release:
– New Language Support: Apple Intelligence now accommodates Chinese, French, German, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and localized English for Singapore and India. This expansion enhances the accessibility of Apple’s AI tools for users globally.
– Visual Intelligence for iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16e: A new feature labeled Visual Intelligence is now accessible through the Action Button on supported devices. This feature enhances user interaction with iPhones by delivering intelligent visual recognition and context-aware actions.
New Creative Tools and Emoji
iOS 18.4 brings several innovative tools and visual improvements that make communication and content creation more enjoyable and expressive:
– Image Playground: The long-anticipated Sketch style is now available alongside Animation and Illustration choices. This feature allows users to craft stylized images and share them directly from their devices.
– Genmoji Enhancements: The Genmoji icon on the keyboard has been updated, now clearly marked as “Genmoji.” This update simplifies the process for users looking to find and use AI-generated emojis that depict their feelings and moods.
– New Emojis: As showcased by the Unicode Consortium, iOS 18.4 features seven new emojis. While some may find them less exciting, they broaden the expressive capabilities of digital communication.
Audio and Media Enhancements
Music enthusiasts and audiophiles will appreciate the novel audio features in iOS 18.4:
– Lossless Audio for AirPods Max: USB-C AirPods Max users can now experience lossless audio quality when linked to a USB-C iPhone. This eagerly awaited feature provides exceptional sound fidelity for a premium listening experience.
– Ambient Music Control: New controls in the Control Center let users select from ambient music modes like Chill, Productivity, Sleep, and Wellbeing. This facilitates setting the mood with a single tap.
Improved Apps and Services
Apple consistently enhances its ecosystem with updates to several essential apps and services:
– Apple News+ Food Section: A new Food section has been introduced in Apple News+. Subscribers can now discover recipes, healthy eating suggestions, restaurant recommendations, and more—all curated in one location.
– Apple Vision Pro App: iOS 18.4 includes a dedicated app for Apple Vision Pro. This app aids users in discovering visionOS content, downloading apps, accessing tips, and managing settings such as Guest Mode.
– Apple Maps Language Preferences: Users can now specify a preferred language for directions in Apple Maps, independent of their iPhone’s system language. This feature is particularly beneficial for multilingual users and travelers.
– CarPlay Enhancements: Vehicles with larger infotainment displays will now show three rows of apps, enhancing navigation and usability while on the road.
– Control Center Redesign: A new Apple Intelligence section has been incorporated into the Control Center, providing quick access to Talk to Siri, Type to Siri, and Visual Intelligence.
Looking to the Future
While the rollout of some of the most advanced features of Apple Intelligence has been postponed indefinitely, iOS 18.4 still offers a strong collection of enhancements that improve the iPhone experience for users around the globe. With expanded language support, creative tools, and intelligent integrations, Apple continues to redefine what its devices can achieve.
Users are encouraged to update their devices to the latest version to take advantage of the newest features and security improvements. iOS 18.4 is now available via the Settings app under General > Software Update.
Stay tuned for further updates as Apple works to refine its AI offerings and gears up for the next major advancement in mobile technology.
