Apple is set to release iOS 18 developer beta 2 on Monday, sparking anticipation among developers and iPhone enthusiasts alike. This update is notable for introducing new features and addressing some of the bugs found in the initial beta release.
New Features in iOS 18 Developer Beta 2
Two significant features will debut with this update:
1. iPhone Mirroring:
This feature allows users to mirror their iPhone display onto a Mac. This means that notifications from the iPhone will also appear on the Mac, and users will be able to drag and drop content between the two devices seamlessly. Essentially, it enhances the integration between iPhone and Mac, providing a more unified user experience.
2. SharePlay Screen Sharing:
Enhanced screen sharing capabilities are also part of the update. This feature will let users draw on someone else’s screen to guide them or even control their screen directly to perform actions. This can be particularly useful for technical support or collaborative tasks.
These features were absent in the initial beta release and are highly anticipated for their potential to enhance productivity and user interaction.
Bug Fixes and Performance Improvements
In addition to these new features, the update will address several bugs that plagued the first beta version of iOS 18. While specific bugs were not detailed, it is common for beta updates to include fixes that improve overall stability and performance.
Features Yet to be Included
Despite the new additions, some features showcased during Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) earlier this month are still not part of the beta release. Notably, the Apple Intelligence features, which include advanced AI capabilities, will not be available in this update. Similarly, non-AI improvements to Siri are also not included yet. Apple has hinted that these features might be included in future beta updates expected later this summer.
Other Updates Expected on Monday
Alongside iOS 18 developer beta 2, Apple is also expected to release second developer betas for:
- iPadOS 18
- macOS Sequoia
- tvOS 18
- visionOS 2
- watchOS 11
These updates are part of Apple’s regular beta testing schedule, aiming to refine new operating systems ahead of their public releases.
Public Beta Release
The public betas for these operating systems, including iOS 18, are scheduled to be released in July. This allows a broader range of users to test and provide feedback on new features before the final release. Historically, Apple has released public betas approximately three to four weeks after the initial developer betas. Given this timeline, the iOS 18 public beta could be available as early as July 8, 2024.
Developer Access and Installation
Apple has made it easier for users to access developer betas. Previously, a $99 annual fee was required to be listed as a developer. Now, anyone can install the developer beta without this fee.
To install the iOS 18 developer beta 2:
- Back Up Your Data: Ensure you have a backup of your iPhone data.
- Navigate to Settings: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Select Beta Updates: Tap the Beta Updates bar at the top of the screen.
- Choose iOS 18 Developer Beta: Select the iOS 18 Developer Beta option.
- Install the Beta: If iOS 18 developer beta 1 is already installed, you will see the option to install the second developer beta on Monday afternoon.
Conclusion
The release of iOS 18 developer beta 2 marks a significant step in the ongoing development of Apple’s operating system. With the introduction of iPhone Mirroring and enhanced SharePlay screen sharing, Apple continues to innovate and integrate its ecosystem, providing users with more seamless and powerful tools. As the beta testing phase progresses, more features and improvements are expected to roll out, leading up to the final release of iOS 18 this fall.