Apple shared iOS 18 beta release notes on Apple Developer last week. It has revealed some changes (improvements) to FaceTime, Siri, and the Wallet app.
iOS 18 is currently available in Beta for Apple Developer Program members and the public beta version will be released in July. The update could be released on a large scale in September. The SDK comes bundled with Xcode 16, available from the Mac App Store. Some of the improvements are discussed below.
Audio enhancement in Siri
According to Apple, iOS 18 includes a new setting that can “significantly” improve the audio quality of Siri in Bluetooth car devices without CarPlay. The new option can be found in the Settings app under Siri > Siri Responses > “Respond over Media Source.” The description for the setting says “Siri will respond over A2DP car stereos, which is ideal while listening to media from your phone.”
Improvements in FaceTime
According to Apple, FaceTime will use more data in Low Power Mode on iOS 18 when network conditions are good, for improved video call quality.
Security improvement in the Wallet app
When users add an ID to the Wallet app on an iPhone, it may now ask the user to take a live photo instead of or in conjunction with a series of head and facial movements. According to Apple, the device will evaluate the Live Photo to ensure that the person adding the document is a real and valid person.
Apple first announced the ability to add a driver’s license or ID to the Wallet app in 2021. However, only four U.S. states (Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, and Georgia) have rolled out the feature so far. The feature provides a convenient, contactless way to show identification or proof of age at select airports, businesses, and venues.
