Apple’s iOS 18.3 Beta 1 debut with home app upgrades and Siri tweaks
Less than a week after the release of iOS 18.2, Apple has launched the first developer beta for iOS 18.3, marking the next step in its software evolution. This update is currently available to developer beta testers, although Apple has not yet announced a public beta version. As developers explore this early release, the focus remains on performance improvements, with hints at upcoming features in the pipeline, including advancements in Apple Intelligence and enhanced Siri capabilities.
iOS 18.3 Beta 1 Details
The first beta of iOS 18.3 is out for developers with build number 22D5034e. For now, it also remains uncertain when there will be a public beta release of this software. This comes shortly after the release of IOS 18.2 which came with some key Apple Intelligence features like Genmoji, Image Playground, and ChatGPT integration with Siri.
At the moment, Apple has not released detailed information on major new additions to iOS 18.3. However, there are a few more steps Apple plans to add to Apple Intelligence such as next-generation Siri with personal context, in-app actions and On-Screen awareness. Furthermore, Apple continues to develop Priority Notifications, which will apply AI to draw the user's attention to the most essential notification
Key Changes in iOS 18.3 Beta 1
While iOS 18.3 beta 1 appears to be a minor update for now, Apple has introduced a handful of noticeable changes:
1. New modem firmware update for select iPhone models.
2. Robot vacuum support was added to the Home app.
3. A subtle update to the Image Playground app icon.
4. The Type to Siri icon in the Control Center has been redesigned.
5. The Camera Control icon in Settings now supports dark mode.
Apple’s changelog also highlights various bug fixes and security improvements, ensuring improved performance and stability.
Who Can Download iOS 18.3 Beta
iOS 18.3 will be available for the supported devices including iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro max and iPhone 16 series, yet to be released into the market. Beta will not be supported on other iPhone models including iPhone XS and later models.
Before updating, users should:
1. Connect their iPhone to their Mac or Windows computer, then back up the iPhone using an archived backup.
2. Make sure the iPhone has the updated iOS 18.2.
How to Access the iOS 18.3 Beta for Free
Apple now offers a free tier of its Developer Program, allowing users to receive beta software without paid membership. To enrol:
- Go to the Apple Developer page and log in with an Apple ID.
- Read the Apple Developer Agreement then complete the form and submit it.
This free tier only gives beta access, though some features are different from the complete tools provided in the paid clubs. If the developers are looking for a detailed source of information then they can go for the premium program.
What’s Next
iOS 18.3 is expected to be released to the public by late January of 2025, followed by iOS 18.4, likely be released for testing in March or April of 2025. For now, the current beta offers developers a look into Apple’s continuous software work in progress alongside performance improvements and modest yet useful changes.