Apple has introduced the first developer beta of iOS 18.4, bringing several new features that will enhance your iPhone experience. From improved notifications to expanded language support, here are the eight most useful updates coming your way.
Smarter notifications and a better emoji experience
With iOS 18.4, you can ensure that the most important notifications appear in a dedicated section on your Lock Screen. This feature, called Priority Notifications, is turned off by default, but you can activate it by going to Settings > Notifications > Prioritise Notifications. This change will help you manage urgent alerts more effectively.
Apple’s Image Playground, introduced in iOS 18.2, allows you to create AI-generated images using text prompts. A Sketch style has been added to the available animation and illustration styles, giving you more creative options. You can switch styles by tapping the “+” button in the Image Playground app.
Another change comes to the emoji keyboard, where the Genmoji button is now larger and labelled clearly. This update makes it easier to access and use personalised emojis.
Improved app categories, CarPlay, and Control Center
Apple has expanded its default app categories in iOS 18.4. You can now set a default app for Translation and Navigation, making it easier to use your preferred apps for these functions. EU users, in particular, can now choose their preferred navigation app, improving accessibility and choice.
CarPlay also receives an upgrade with a refreshed layout. The home screen will now support a third row of apps, better utilising the larger infotainment displays found in modern vehicles.
A new set of Ambient Music options is coming to the Control Center. You can choose from four categories—chill, Productivity, Sleep, and Well-being—each playing a curated selection of music and sounds to match the mood.
Expanded language support and new Podcast widgets
Apple Intelligence is becoming more globally accessible with the addition of French, German, Italian, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese. Additionally, localised English versions for Singapore and India will be available, broadening the reach of Apple’s AI-powered tools.
Podcast lovers will also benefit from new widgets. iOS 18.4 allows you to add Library and Shows widgets from the Podcasts app directly to your home screen, making it easier to access your favourite content.
These new features in iOS 18.4 aim to improve functionality, user experience, and accessibility. The update is currently in beta, so you can expect further refinements before its official release.
