A few weeks after Apple began testing iOS 18.6, the company has released beta 2 for developers. While this particular update may not be the most exciting among iOS 18 versions, it certainly introduces new features.
For instance, users in the EU will experience a different approach when installing third-party app markets and applications from the internet. With new guidance from the European Commission under the Digital Markets Act, Apple is unable to instill fear in users regarding the download of apps outside the App Store.
Moreover, Apple is preparing to implement Apple Intelligence support in China. While Mandarin support has been available since iOS 18.4, the company is collaborating with Alibaba to facilitate this platform in the region.
In February, Bloomberg detailed the agreement between Apple and Alibaba, as the Chinese government mandates that Apple utilize local models for its Apple Intelligence platform. At that time, the report stated that these stipulations only pertain to devices purchased within China. Users who acquired an iPhone, iPad, or Mac abroad will still be able to use the original version of Apple Intelligence.
Alibaba will handle the “censorship and filtering of AI outputs to align with requirements set by the Chinese government. Conversely, Baidu will oversee Visual Intelligence and search functionalities.
Additionally, the iOS 18.6 beta code has unveiled Apple’s upcoming smart home hub. A file suggests that this accessory is in development at Apple. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman recently disclosed that Apple intended to unveil its new homeOS software (and its first smart home hub product) at a March event. However, due to delays related to Siri features, the company postponed the presentation.
Notably, iOS 18.6 beta is not the sole software revealing new products. iOS 26 beta code has also uncovered at least three new products anticipated in the near future.
