Apple Launches iOS 18.5 Beta 3: Discover What’s New and What to Anticipate
Apple has officially released the third beta version of iOS 18.5 for developers and public beta testers, maintaining its continuous rollout of updates in anticipation of the final public version. Although the complete range of changes in iOS 18.5 beta 3 has not been revealed, initial builds of the update have already introduced several significant enhancements and refinements to the iPhone experience.
Here’s a summary of what we know so far about iOS 18.5 and what users can look forward to in the upcoming weeks.
Fixes and Enhancements in iOS 18.5 Beta 1 & 2
1. Mail App Contact Photos Toggle
One of the most appreciated modifications in the iOS 18.5 beta series is the resolution of the Mail app’s Contact Photos feature. In the past, users wishing to turn off contact photos within the Mail app had to dig deep into the Settings menu. With iOS 18.5, Apple has streamlined this procedure by incorporating a toggle directly in the Mail app’s interface. This minor yet significant modification addresses a frequent user grievance and boosts customization options.
2. AppleCare Banner in Settings
Apple has also refreshed the AppleCare section in the Settings app. A new banner featuring the AppleCare logo now delivers users clearer insights regarding their device’s coverage. This visual enhancement simplifies the understanding and access to support options for users.
3. Pride Wallpaper Reference
In keeping with Apple’s commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusion, iOS 18.5 includes hints of a new Pride-themed wallpaper anticipated for release next month. This addition is in line with Apple’s yearly rollout of Pride content across its platforms.
What’s New in iOS 18.5 Beta 3?
At present, Apple has not revealed any major new features specific to beta 3. Nonetheless, the update likely encompasses internal improvements, bug fixes, and performance enhancements as Apple readies for the final rollout.
One expected feature that will not debut with iOS 18.5 is on-device screen awareness for Siri. Initially speculated for this update, the feature has now been postponed indefinitely. Apple’s top executive for Siri recently described the current state of AI integration as “ugly and embarrassing,” indicating that more development is required before such features can be launched.
Apple Intelligence Features Introduced in Previous iOS 18.5 Betas
While beta 3 may not unveil groundbreaking features, earlier iOS 18.5 versions have already introduced several Apple Intelligence enhancements:
– New Language Support: Apple has broadened language support for its AI features, now covering Chinese, French, German, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and localized English for Singapore and India.
– Image Playground: The eagerly anticipated Sketch style has been incorporated into the Image Playground, joining Animation and Illustration options. This grants users more creative tools for producing AI-driven images.
– Genmoji Update: Apple has refreshed the Genmoji icon on the keyboard to clearly display the label “Genmoji,” simplifying identification and utilization of this feature for users.
– Visual Intelligence for Action Button: iPhone 15 Pro and forthcoming iPhone 16e users can now link the Visual Intelligence feature to the Action Button, enabling quicker access to AI-driven visual recognition.
What’s Next?
With WWDC 2025 approaching, Apple is poised to unveil iOS 19 and its broader AI strategy. In the interim, iOS 18.5 acts as a bridge, presenting gradual enhancements while establishing the foundation for more sophisticated features ahead.
The final version of iOS 18.5 is expected to launch in the coming weeks. As always, users should back up their devices prior to installing beta software and stay alert for further updates as Apple hones the experience.
Conclusion
Although iOS 18.5 beta 3 may not introduce an abundance of new features, it continues Apple’s momentum of refining the iPhone experience through insightful modifications and AI-driven enhancements. From a more user-friendly Mail app to extended language support and visual intelligence tools, iOS 18.5 is shaping up to be a substantial mid-cycle update for iPhone users.
Stay tuned for more insights as Apple persists in developing and launching new features in the iOS 18.5 beta series.
