Apple Unveils iOS 18.1 Public Beta 4 with New Features and Enhancements
On October 15, Apple released the fourth public beta of iOS 18.1, providing developers and beta testers an early look at new functionality and refinements shortly after the rollout of iOS 18.0.1 aimed at resolving various iPhone issues. The initial launch of iOS 18 in September introduced users to a range of exciting features, including RCS messaging and enhanced home screen customization. This latest beta brings important updates, particularly for those using the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 series, along with Apple Intelligence features available to testers outside the EU and China.
As with any beta software, users are advised to download it on secondary devices rather than primary ones, as potential bugs and battery challenges may arise prior to the stable release. The final rollout date for iOS 18.1 remains unannounced, leaving users anticipating its public debut.
Key Enhancements in iOS 18.1 Beta 4
Expanded RCS Messaging Support
With iOS 18, Apple expanded RCS messaging capabilities, enhancing communication possibilities for iPhone users. In the latest beta, support extends to additional carriers globally, including:
- Telenet, Proximus, and BASE (Belgium)
- TracFone and C Spire (US)
Refreshed Control Center
The overhaul to the Control Center in iOS 18 sees more refinements in the latest beta. Users will notice that connectivity controls have been redesigned to tile shapes, providing easier access to essential settings. New independent controls for Wi-Fi, VPN, AirDrop, and Satellite have been added, improving user experience. Also notable are newly introduced Level and Measure tools, useful for home improvement projects.
Enhanced Apple ID Management
Another significant feature is the ability to change or add a new primary email address for your Apple ID directly through the settings menu. This option allows for greater flexibility in managing accounts and communications.
Home Screen Widgets and Notifications
iOS 18.1 beta enhances the widget customization options, allowing users to tint home screen apps, with the new tint also applying to widgets. Moreover, lock screen notifications now display counts next to each app icon, making it simpler to track incoming alerts at a glance.
Noteworthy New Features
Sleep Apnea Detection and Call Recording
The beta version also previews features like sleep apnea detection via Apple WatchOS 11 for compatible models. Additionally, users can now record phone calls through the iPhone, complete with an automatic announcement that indicates when recording is taking place, complying with legal standards.
Expanded Emoji Keyboard
Apple enhances user creativity with an expanded emoji keyboard. Users can now view their custom stickers and Memojis more easily, bringing more personality to their conversations.
Drag and Drop with iPhone Mac Mirroring
For those utilizing both iOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1, file transfers between devices have become seamless with the new drag-and-drop functionality during screen mirroring.
Apple Intelligence Features
Initially introduced in earlier developer betas, Apple Intelligence features such as advanced writing tools for emails and the Clean Up photo tool are also included in this public beta. However, these features remain exclusive to certain device models and are unavailable to users with the base model iPhone 15 and below.
Shaping the Future of Technology
The ongoing evolution of iOS underscores Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience through continuous innovation. As more beta updates may be on the horizon, it’s clear that Apple’s dedication to refinement and user feedback will shape the eventual release of iOS 18.1, culminating in a product designed for inclusive access and unparalleled functionality.
For those eager to dive deeper into the world of iOS, check out our reviews on iOS 18, RCS messaging on iPhones, and the essential iOS 18 cheat sheet.
Readers are invited to share their thoughts about the new features of iOS 18.1 beta. Which enhancement excites you the most? We’d love to hear from you!
