Public Betas for iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1 macOS Sequoia Release With Apple Intelligence

Apple has released the first public betas for iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1. Users can begin testing the latest software before the official launch next month.

Following the release of iOS 18 to the general user base, public beta testers can download the iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and ‌macOS Sequoia‌ 15.1 updates on their respective devices. By navigating to the ‘Settings’ app and selecting ‘Software Update’, a ‘Public Beta’ option can be chosen to try out the new beta software.

The big marquee feature of 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and ‌macOS Sequoia‌ 15.1 is that these are the first pieces of software to begin featuring Apple Intelligence. While Apple isn’t releasing all AI features off the hop, there are a few Apple Intelligence-powered features such as changes to Siri, smart replies, and Writing Tools.

You must sign up for the Apple beta testing program to opt into Apple’s public beta tests. You can use your Apple ID email address or phone number to sync your account and devices. Once opted in, you can select to install and download any new public beta software when available.

iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 introduce a new Siri design which features a subtle glow around the display. The new Type to Siri feature means that you can get responses without always having to use voice commands. Siri also features contextual conversational support, meaning it can return context between requests, making it feel more like a fluid conversation.

On top of this, iOS 18.1 enables all users to access phone call recording and transcribing. Recorded calls and transcriptions can be found within the Notes app. Summarizing phone calls from transcriptions are only available via Apple Intelligence.

It’s important to note that all Apple Intelligence features are locked to iPhone 15 Pro models, iPhone 16, and M-series iPad and Mac devices.