iOS Unveiled: Exploring Changes and Features in iOS 18.3 Beta 2 [Video]

Following the impactful launches of iOS 18.1 and iOS 18.2, Apple’s newest developer beta – iOS 18.3 beta 2 – appears to be notably calmer regarding user-visible features and updates. Yet, there are underlying elements that might give clues about what to anticipate from future updates in both software and hardware. In this inaugural episode of iOS Decoded, we explore the intricacies of iOS 18.3. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for forthcoming episodes.

iOS 18.3 beta 2 comes with a build number of 22D5040d, having been released for developers on January 7, 2025, with the public beta becoming available just a day later on January 8th.

This update does not seem to be a feature-rich one like its two predecessors. iPhone users can expect another round of substantial updates only with iOS 18.4.

Video: iOS Decoded – iOS 18.3 beta 2

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What’s new in iOS 18.3 beta 2?

Bug and security fixes

As expected, iOS 18.3 will include a variety of bug and security fixes. While DMN confirms their presence, Apple will remain tight-lipped about specifics until iOS 18.3 is officially released to the public. At that time, details of the security measures in iOS 18.3 will be available on Apple’s security releases page.

Camera Control settings icon dark mode support

The latest beta introduces dark mode support for the Camera Control icon within settings. Though a minor update, it enhances consistency across the platform.

Calculator app – repeat calculations

This change is significant for frequent users of the default Calculator app. The launch of iOS 18 brought notable updates to this app, including iPad support and design enhancements, but also eliminated the functionality to repeat calculations using continuous presses of the = sign. Good news: iOS 18.3 beta 2 has reinstated this useful feature.

Sleep apnea notifications enabled in Brazil

Users in Brazil can now benefit from Sleep apnea notifications, which have been enabled in iOS 18.3.

New Intelligence Sounds in the ScreenReader framework

The accessibility-focused ScreenReader framework has received new Intelligence Sounds, but these have not yet appeared in any user-facing capacity.

Tamale widget references removed

Discussions have arisen about Apple restricting Visual Intelligence to iPhone 16 models, despite the potential for older devices to access the feature through other means.

The Tamale widget, which was tested internally, was designed to allow users to invoke Visual Intelligence via a widget, rather than using the dedicated Camera Control button available on iPhone 16 models. This suggestion indicates that Apple may be considering alternative methods for invoking Visual Intelligence so that users of older iPhone models could benefit from the feature.

Multiple next-gen CarPlay references

The iOS 18.3 beta has revealed several references linked to CarPlay developments, including a new CarPlayHybridInstrument reference in the Maps app, alongside new lines associated with AC controls.

These enhancements are noteworthy because they likely pertain to the next-generation CarPlay interface, known as CarPlay 2, which Apple previewed during WWDC 2024. As of January 8th, 2025, Apple’s website still states that “first models arrive in 2024” concerning the next generation of CarPlay.

This prompts several questions: Will the next generation of CarPlay ever become a reality? If so, why are there no supported vehicles ahead of the 2024 deadline? What’s causing the delay? While these questions remain unanswered, Apple’s continued enhancements to CarPlay in post-2024 beta versions might suggest that the hold-up is on Apple’s side, not the car manufacturers’. It will be intriguing to observe how this unfolds.

Correction of the small Apple logo during iPhone 16 Pro Max updates

A minor bug affecting iPhone 16 Pro Max users when updating has been resolved.

Introduction of the ISPExclaveKitServices framework

The Secure Exclave, distinct from the Secure Enclave that handles security for features like Face ID and Apple Pay, is a specialized subsystem which debuted with the M4 iPad Pro. The iPhone 16 series is the next hardware line to incorporate the Secure Exclave. We look forward to seeing an updated Apple Platform Security document that details the Secure Exclave.

On the iPhone 16 series and iPad Pro, this Secure Exclave is responsible for rendering privacy indicators or Secure Indicator Lights (SIL), which appear in the Dynamic Island and status bar when the camera or microphone is active. For devices without the Secure Exclave, these indicators rely on software rendering. Having hardware-based indicator rendering enhances security by reducing the chance for malicious software to control these indicators.

The introduction of a new ISPExclaveKitServices framework in iOS 18.3 signifies a step forward. The ISP, or Image Signal Processor, is essential for managing images from the iPhone’s cameras, transforming sensor data into visually appealing photos or videos with features like noise reduction and filtering.

ISPs may be embedded directly on the chip, as seen in the current versions of Apple Silicon, or they can exist as separate units. Speculations suggest that Apple is designing its own in-house ISP, which may mean future ISPs could be positioned within their own segment of the Secure Exclave. However, the ISPExclave modifications are likely applicable to existing hardware, primarily representing a shift in software architecture.

Unreleased Apple Invites app

In the previous 18.2 beta, DMN discovered mentions of an unreleased Invites app, but this reference was later removed. However, the reference has resurfaced in iOS 18.3 beta 2. As discussed in our dedicated article, iOS 18.3 hints at a new ‘Invites’ app from Apple aimed at creating and managing events, offering features that go beyond the simple event invites available through the default Calendar app.

The code implies that the Invites app will sync with iCloud and feature a web version accessible on iCloud.com. Additionally, this new app will work in conjunction with an innovative daemon in iOS 18 called GroupKit, which manages database models for groups. This daemon has been included since the initial release of iOS 18.0 but has not yet been utilized in any Apple applications.

DMN’s Take

This represents my first entry in a revamped series focused on the walkthroughs of iOS beta updates. My aim is to provide a more comprehensive exploration of beta features and their potential long-term implications.

What do you think? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to subscribe to DMN on YouTube for future episodes of iOS Decoded.