Apple releases iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 beta 2 to developers

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Apple has released iOS 18 beta 6 and iOS 18.1 beta 2 to developers. The update comes shortly after the first beta was released with the “Rate Your Experiences” feature, letting users provide feedback on Apple Intelligence-generated content, alongside enhancements like smarter Siri interactions and improved Mail features.

iOS 18.1

iOS 18 beta 6

iOS 18 beta 6 introduces refinements focused on enhancing the user experience.

The Photos app benefits from a redesigned Albums Collection with a card-style layout for easier navigation. The Control Center gains a dedicated Bluetooth toggle for quicker access. Dark Mode consistency is improved with notification icons accurately reflecting Dark Mode settings. Users can now link icon tints to wallpaper colors for a more cohesive look.

iOS 18.1 beta 2

iOS 18.1 introduces Apple Intelligence features, including Writing Tools that allow users to summarize websites, change the tone of texts, and even transcribe phone calls directly within the Notes app.

Beta 2 of iOS 18.1 offers a new Safari Distraction Control feature that enables users to hide distracting elements on web pages, improving the browsing experience. Like the main beta, iOS 18.1 beta 2 also includes the dedicated Bluetooth toggle and improvements to the Photos app.

How to access the latest iOS 18 beta updates

To install the developer beta update, you will need an Apple Developer Account which usually costs $99/year. If you sign in with the same account on your iPhone, you should see the option to switch to the developer beta when you go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates. Alternatively, you can wait for the public beta, which is available for free.

  1. Make sure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
  2. Do a complete iCloud backup of your device.
  3. Charge your device to at least 50% battery capacity.
  4. Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
  5. Tap Download and Install.
  6. Enter your passcode or use Face ID or Touch ID to authenticate.
  7. Your device will download and install the update. This may take some time.
  8. Once the update is complete, your device will restart.

The public release of iOS 18 is slated for the fall alongside the launch of iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro.

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About the Author

Asma is an editor at iThinkDifferent with a strong focus on social media, Apple news, streaming services, guides, mobile gaming, app reviews, and more. When not blogging, Asma loves to play with her cat, draw, and binge on Netflix shows.