iOS 18.2 is Out: Top 15 New Features for Your iPhone

Apple has released iOS 18.2, packed with a range of new features, many of which focus on Apple Intelligence. But even older iPhones get some useful upgrades this time.

From improved AirTag functionality and file download statuses in Live Activity to ChatGPT integration and Genmoji – here’s everything new in iOS 18.2.

Which Devices Get iOS 18.2?

iOS 18.2 is available for all devices that support iOS 18 and iOS 17. Here’s the full list:

iPhone XR
iPhone SE (2020 and 2022)
iPhone XS Series
iPhone 11 Series
iPhone 12 Series
iPhone 13 Series
iPhone 14 Series
iPhone 15 Series
iPhone 16 Series

However, Apple Intelligence features will mostly be available on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the entire iPhone 16 series.

Top 15 Features in iOS 18.2

ChatGPT Integration

The biggest highlight: ChatGPT is now integrated with Siri and Writing Tools. No ChatGPT account is required for basic use, and requests remain anonymous. You can log in to use premium features if you have a paid ChatGPT subscription.

Genmoji

Generate custom emojis (e.g., a face with cucumber slices on the eyes) if the default emoji list doesn’t have what you need.

Image Generation

Like Genmoji, you can generate images in Image Playground by choosing a photo, entering a prompt, or using preset suggestions.

Focus Lock via Camera Control

iPhone 16 users can lock focus and exposure by lightly pressing the Camera Control button. Available in Settings.

Classic Video Player Returns

The updated video player in the Photos app was unpopular, so Apple reverted to the classic layout with controls and the gallery slider overlaying the video.

Mail Categorization

Emails are now sorted into categories like “Promotions,” “News,” and “Receipts.” Messages from the same sender are grouped, and company avatars are larger.

Share your AirTag or Find My-compatible item’s location via a link. Airlines can use this feature to help reunite owners with lost items. Location sharing auto-disables when the owner is nearby.

Download Status in Safari

Downloads in Safari now display as a Live Activity on the lock screen.

More interesting features:

Dark Icons in Settings
A subtle tweak: Settings icons now have a dark mode option.
Volume Limit in Settings
Limit the maximum volume for media. This doesn’t affect ringtone or alarm volume.
iPhone Mirroring with Hotspot Mode
Use iPhone Mirroring while your device is in hotspot mode.
Natural Language Search in Apple Music & TV+
Search for content using natural language, like “focus music” or “shows with Mark Eidelstein.”
Trust Computers with Face ID/Touch ID
Authorize computer connections using Face ID or Touch ID without entering a passcode.
Volume Control on Lock Screen Media Player
The volume slider in the lock screen media player is back after being removed in iOS 17.
Delete Default Apps in the EU
EU users can delete built-in apps like Photos, Camera, and even the App Store. They can be restored via Settings.