The Messages app from Apple is a staple for countless iPhone users. Following the substantial iOS 18 update, iOS 18.2 has introduced even more enhancements driven by Apple Intelligence.
Genmoji for Texting and Tapbacks
Among Apple’s most highly anticipated AI features, Genmoji stands out and is seamlessly integrated into the Messages app.
These Genmoji are incorporated into your regular emoji keyboard on the iPhone, making them accessible across all applications, although Messages is expected to be their primary use case.
To create a Genmoji, simply open the emoji keyboard in Messages and tap the glowing smiley icon located at the top-right corner.
Once you’ve created your Genmoji, they will be stored in your emoji keyboard, right alongside the usual emoji options.
You can share Genmoji in your messages and utilize them as tapbacks. Just double-tap a message, and you will see your Genmoji in the tapback suggestions or you can browse through the entire emoji library.
Image Playground Built Right In
Attaching photos to a message is commonly understood: just click on the small plus sign located in the bottom-left corner of the conversation, then select the Photos option.
However, many users may not be aware of other applications and tools hidden behind that plus button. iOS 18.2 has introduced a new one: Image Playground.
This feature allows users to craft original images utilizing Apple Intelligence. While there’s a dedicated app available on your Home Screen for exploration, Image Playground is also integrated directly into Messages.
With the assistance of AI, users can generate images in two distinct styles—Animation and Illustration—based on various inputs. You can create visuals that represent the person you’re messaging dressed as a superhero, a detective, or any character you like, placing them within themed backgrounds, experimenting with costumes, accessories, and more.
Whether you aim to depict someone specific or just let your imagination run wild, Image Playground offers limitless possibilities.
Find the Right Words with AI’s Assistance
Apple Intelligence has also enhanced its writing tools first introduced in iOS 18.1.
A significant update for Messages users is a new feature designed to help you refine your messages prior to sending them.
While iOS 18.1 offered proofreading and a few rephrasing styles, iOS 18.2 introduces a ‘Describe your change’ function which can greatly assist in text composition.
Drafting a crucial message can be challenging at times; we may know what we intend to convey, yet struggle to articulate it.
To improve your drafts, write some initial text, select the Writing Tools button that appears, and choose ‘Describe your change.’ You can articulate to Apple Intelligence your intended message, which it will then revise accordingly.
If you’re completely at a loss, ChatGPT can now generate original text from scratch using the Compose tool found in the same Writing Tools menu.
iOS 18.2 Messages Recap
The advancements in Apple Intelligence with iOS 18.2 significantly enhance your experience with the Messages app. New functionalities for emoji, images, and text creation have been unlocked with these updates.
The only limitation? You need an AI-compatible iPhone set to a supported language, and as of now, Apple Intelligence is not available in the EU or China.
Have you tried the latest Messages features in iOS 18.2? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
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