Apple’s iOS 18.2 Adds ChatGPT to Siri, Plus New AI Tools for Photos

Apple has unveiled the beta version of its upcoming iOS 18.2, marking a significant update with new AI-powered features, including integration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT. This release builds on the features of iOS 18.1, which is set to launch next week, and extends Apple Intelligence capabilities to more English-speaking countries beyond the U.S.

Siri and ChatGPT Integration

One of the most anticipated features of iOS 18.2 is the integration of ChatGPT into Siri. This enhancement will allow Siri to handle more complex queries by leveraging the power of OpenAI’s chatbot. While Siri has long been able to answer basic questions, ChatGPT enables it to manage more sophisticated requests.

Users can access ChatGPT directly through Siri, but they will need to provide permission before any queries are sent to the AI.

Unlike other AI tools, no separate OpenAI account is needed for users to interact with ChatGPT through Siri.

In addition to improving Siri's functionality, ChatGPT will be embedded in various text fields across iOS, assisting users in generating content. It's also part of Apple’s Visual Intelligence feature, enabling real-time object identification and translation using the camera.

Expansion of Apple Intelligence

iOS 18.2 introduces Apple Intelligence support to more English-speaking countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK. This is a significant expansion beyond iOS 18.1, which only supports U.S. English. Users in these regions can now enjoy enhanced AI-powered capabilities for visual searches, real-time translations, and improved Siri interactions.

Currently, the iOS 18.2 beta is available exclusively to users in Apple’s beta program and is compatible with iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 models. The full public release is expected in December 2024.

AI-Powered Tools: Image Playground and Genmoji

Along with the ChatGPT integration, iOS 18.2 introduces several new AI-driven tools to enhance user creativity and personalization.

• Image Playground: This standalone app allows users to generate and modify images from text prompts. Whether users want to create new images or make edits—like adding objects or costumes—this app offers a wide range of customization options based on photos or text.

• Genmoji: iOS 18.2 brings Genmoji, a tool that lets users create personalized emojis based on text descriptions. Users can even generate emoji versions of their friends by using data from photos, adding a new level of fun and creativity to messaging.

Image Wand: Advanced Photo Editing

Another exciting feature of iOS 18.2 is Image Wand, which lets users remove unwanted objects from photos without disturbing the background. This tool uses advanced AI to clean up images, making it easy to perfect photos in just a few taps.

Enhanced AI Writing Tools

Apple’s AI-powered writing tools, which debuted in iOS 18.1, are now more widely available in iOS 18.2. These tools can proofread, rewrite, and suggest content across several apps, including Mail, Notes, and Pages. With enhanced writing assistance, users can streamline their work with greater accuracy and ease.

Visual Intelligence

In September, Apple revealed plans to bring a Google Lens-like ‘visual intelligence’ feature to its iPhone 16 models. This feature enhances visual searches and integrates ChatGPT for more advanced queries, allowing users to identify objects, translate text, and search visually in real time.

While this feature has been available as a preview for developers, it will be officially released to the public next week alongside iOS 18.1.

Looking Ahead

The beta release of iOS 18.2 signals Apple's commitment to integrating more powerful AI features into its ecosystem. The ChatGPT-powered Siri will offer users more advanced capabilities, making iPhones even more intuitive and responsive to complex commands. As AI continues to evolve, these tools will likely play a key role in Apple's long-term strategy for its operating systems and devices.