Apple’s Messages app remains a favorite among many iPhone users. Following a substantial update with iOS 18, further enhancements have been introduced in iOS 18.2, primarily powered by several impressive Apple Intelligence features.
Genmoji for Messaging and Tapbacks
One of the most awaited AI innovations is integrated into Messages: Genmoji.
Genmoji are conveniently accessible through the standard emoji keyboard on the iPhone, making them easy to use across various applications—though it’s in Messages where they’ll likely see the most action.
To create a Genmoji, open the emoji keyboard in Messages, then tap the illuminated smiley icon at the top-right corner.
Once you’ve created your Genmoji, they will be stored in your emoji keyboard alongside regular emojis.
You can send your Genmoji in conversations or use them as tapbacks. Just double tap a message to view your Genmoji options in the tapback suggestions or browse through the full emoji library.
Built-in Image Playground
However, many users may not realize that various other small apps and tools are accessible by clicking that plus icon. A new addition in iOS 18.2 is the Image Playground.
The Image Playground empowers you to create unique images through the use of Apple Intelligence. While a dedicated app is available on your Home Screen, it’s also seamlessly integrated into Messages.
With AI, you can generate images in two distinctive styles—Animation and Illustration—based on various inputs. These images can portray the person you’re messaging in creative roles, such as a superhero or detective. You can also customize the scenes, costumes, accessories, and more.
Whether you wish to create images reflecting someone specific or just let your imagination run wild, there are endless possibilities with the Image Playground.
Finding the Perfect Words with AI Assistance
Apple Intelligence has also enhanced its writing tools, first introduced in iOS 18.1.
One of the significant improvements for Messages users is a new tool designed to help refine your messages before they are sent.
While iOS 18.1 offered proofreading and style rewriting features, iOS 18.2 introduces a ‘Describe your change’ option that can greatly assist when composing messages.
We all face challenges when trying to draft important texts. Sometimes we know the message we want to convey, but finding the right words can be tough.
Now, you can start drafting a message, select the Writing Tools button that appears, and choose ‘Describe your change.’ You can communicate your intent to Apple Intelligence, which will then revise the message to meet your needs.
If you’re completely unsure of what to say, you can also have ChatGPT generate original text from scratch through the Compose feature located in the same Writing Tools menu.
Conclusion on iOS 18.2 Messages
With the enhancements in iOS 18.2, Apple Intelligence greatly influences how you use the Messages app. The new features for emoji, images, and text expand your messaging possibilities.
The only limitation? You require an AI-capable iPhone that supports the necessary language, and Apple Intelligence is not yet available in the EU or China.
Have you tried the new Messages features in iOS 18.2? What are your thoughts? Feel free to share in the comments.
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