Apple today released the second public beta of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, allowing non-developers to test the software ahead of its launch in October. The second beta comes a day after Apple made the software available to developers.
Public beta testers who have signed up for Apple's beta testing program can download the iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 updates by opening the Settings app, tapping the Software Update section, and selecting the Public Beta option. Apple has also released watchOS 11.1 and tvOS 18.1 betas to public beta testers.
iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1 are the first updates that include Apple Intelligence features. Not all AI capabilities have been added, but the beta includes writing tools, Siri updates, Summaries, AI-powered Focus mode, and Smart Reply. To use the Apple Intelligence features, you'll need an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 model, or an M-series Mac or iPad.
Writing tools are also available when text is selected and edited, and this feature can be used to check spelling, correct grammar, rewrite your work in a new tone, and summarize text.
Siri has been overhauled with a new design that includes a subtle glow around the display, and typing to Siri means you don't have to talk to Siri to get an answer. Siri can walk you through it if you stumble on your words, and maintain context between requests. Safari can summarize articles, and there's a new Reduce Interruptions focus mode that intelligently highlights only the important information.
Smart Replies are available in Messages and Mail, plus the Mail app brings priority time-sensitive messages to the forefront and puts them at the top of your inbox. Photos has a Memory Movie feature for creating slideshows based on text descriptions, and a Clean Up tool for unwanted objects in your photos.
All iOS 18.1 users can now access phone call recording and transcribing, recorded calls are saved in the Notes app, but summarizing phone calls from those transcriptions is an Apple intelligence feature. This update also brings spatial photo capabilities to the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.
The second beta includes an update to iPhone Mirroring, which adds support for drag and drop file transfers between iPhone and Mac. iPhone 16 users will see a Control Center reset option and a camera control icon to activate the front-facing camera for selfies.
More information on all the features available in the beta can be found in our Apple Intelligence guide. Image Playground, Zenmoji, and other new Siri features have not yet been implemented.