With iOS 18.4 in beta for under two weeks, and following the release of beta 2 earlier this week, we’re uncovering more updates and tweaks. The latest involves two enhancements to the App Store that aim to improve the app and update download experience.
#1: AI-generated review summaries by Apple
The range of Apple Intelligence capabilities on its devices is continually expanding. In the latest iOS 18.4 beta 2, this includes an AI enhancement for application and game reviews.
As previously reported, now while browsing an app or game’s listing in the App Store, Apple Intelligence provides a concise summary of all user reviews submitted.
The new ‘Review Summary’ condenses user feedback into a brief paragraph that reflects the general sentiment about the app.
I’ve appreciated having a similar feature in Amazon’s shopping app for quite some time, as it provides a quick overview of product perceptions. Adding this to apps and games is logical and will help users save time sifting through reviews.
#2: Ability to pause app downloads and updates
Generally, allowing a download of a new app or an update to run uninterrupted isn’t an issue.
However, there are instances—whether due to weak connectivity, network congestion, or other hindrances—where it would be beneficial to pause a download.
Previously, users could only stop a download altogether, requiring them to restart it from the beginning once they were ready to continue.
Now, with iOS 18.4, a new pause button enables users to temporarily stop an app or update download and then resume it without losing any progress.
This is a minor but valuable update for situations where downloads are interrupted.
What are your thoughts on these App Store changes in iOS 18.4? Share your opinions in the comments.