iOS Unlocked: Exploring the Changes and Features of iOS 18.3 Beta 2 [Video]

Following the impactful updates of iOS 18.1 and iOS 18.2, Apple has released its latest developer beta – iOS 18.3 beta 2. This version seems relatively uneventful in terms of visible user features and modifications. Nevertheless, there are underlying changes that may indicate what is on the horizon for future iOS software and hardware. In the debut episode of iOS Decoded, we will delve deeper into iOS 18.3, so make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more episodes.

iOS 18.3 beta 2 has a build number of 22D5040d and was made available to developers on January 7, 2025, with the public beta being released shortly after on January 8th.

This update does not seem to be laden with new features as seen in the previous major releases. iPhone users will have to hold off until iOS 18.4 to experience any significant changes.

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

Naturally, iOS 18.3 will include various fixes for bugs and security. While DMN has confirmed this, Apple will not provide specifics on those fixes until after the public release of iOS 18.3. At that point, users will be able to find the security details on Apple’s security releases page.

Dark mode support for Camera Control settings icon

The previous beta introduced dark mode support for the Camera Control icon in the settings. Though it’s a minor change, it enhances overall consistency.

Calculator app – repeat calculations

This is quite significant for users of the default Calculator app. With the launch of iOS 18, the Calculator app underwent substantial updates, including iPad compatibility, a design overhaul, and the addition of Math Notes. However, it also eliminated the option to repeat calculations by repeatedly pressing the = button. iOS 18.3 beta 2 has restored this capability.

Sleep apnea notifications launched in Brazil

This update hopefully benefits users in Brazil, as Apple has activated Sleep apnea notifications in iOS 18.3 for Brazilian customers.

New Intelligence Sounds in the ScreenReader framework

The ScreenReader framework designed for accessibility has received new Intelligence Sounds, which have yet to be made available for user interaction.

Tamale widget references eliminated

There have been discussions concerning Apple’s decision to limit Visual Intelligence to the iPhone 16 models, despite the possibility of making this functionality available on older devices.

The Tamale widget, which was tested internally, would allow users to access Visual Intelligence via a widget rather than using the specific Camera Control button found on devices from the iPhone 16 generation. This could imply that Apple is considering new ways to implement Visual Intelligence, enabling users with older iPhone models to benefit from the feature.

Several next-generation CarPlay references

The iOS 18.3 beta includes numerous references related to CarPlay, such as a new CarPlayHybridInstrument reference incorporated into the Maps app, along with additional strings associated with AC controls.

These developments are intriguing as they likely refer to the next-generation CarPlay interface, or CarPlay 2, showcased by Apple at WWDC 2024. As of January 8, 2025, Apple still indicates that “first models arrive in 2024” regarding the next-gen CarPlay on its website.

This prompts several questions: Will the next-generation CarPlay ever launch? If it does, why were there no compatible vehicles released before the 2024 timeline? Who bears responsibility for the delay? Although no answers are available yet, the continuation of feature additions to CarPlay in post-2024 beta releases suggests that the delay may lie with Apple rather than car manufacturers. It will certainly be interesting to watch how this unfolds.

Resolution for the small Apple logo issue when updating the iPhone 16 Pro Max

A minor bug affecting iOS updates for iPhone 16 Pro Max users has been addressed.

Introduction of the ISPExclaveKitServices framework

The Secure Exclave—distinct from the Secure Enclave that protects features like Face ID and Apple Pay—is a specialized subsystem that was first introduced with the M4 iPad Pro. The latest Apple hardware to feature the Secure Exclave is the iPhone 16 lineup. We anticipate an updated Apple Platform Security document, which will provide details on the Secure Exclave.

On the iPhone 16 and iPad Pro, the Secure Exclave is responsible for rendering privacy indicators or Secure Indicator Lights (SIL), which are displayed in the Dynamic Island and status bar whenever the camera or microphone is active. In devices lacking the Secure Exclave, these indicators are managed via software. Having these indicators controlled by dedicated hardware instead of software provides an added layer of security, minimizing risks of unauthorized access.

In iOS 18.3, there is a new ISPExclaveKitServices framework. The ISP, or Image Signal Processor, plays a role in processing images from all iPhone cameras, converting raw sensor data into appealing photos or videos by applying noise reduction and filtering techniques.

ISPs can be integrated directly onto the chip, as seen in the current versions of Apple Silicon, or might function as separate components. There are speculations about Apple potentially developing its in-house ISP, indicating that upcoming ISPs may be allocated to a dedicated area within the Secure Exclave. Regardless, changes concerning the ISPExclave can be applied to existing hardware as they mainly revolve around software architecture adjustments.

Unreleased Apple Invites app

In the prior 18.2 beta, DMN uncovered indications of an unreleased Invites app, although the reference was eventually removed. In iOS 18.3 beta 2, however, this reference has made a reappearance. As detailed in a separate article, iOS 18.3 hints at a new ‘Invites’ app from Apple designed for creating and managing events. This functionality appears to extend beyond simple event invitations typically offered by the default Calendar app.

Code suggests the Invites app will sync with iCloud and will even have a web version accessible via iCloud.com. Additionally, it will work in conjunction with a new iOS 18 daemon called GroupKit, which oversees database structures for groups of individuals. This daemon has been present since the first iOS 18.0 release without any utilization in Apple applications thus far.

DMN’s Perspective

This marks my initial episode and post in a revamped series dedicated to exploring iOS beta updates. My goal is to present comprehensive analyses of these beta updates and their potential long-term implications.

What are your thoughts? Feel free to share your comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to DMN on YouTube for upcoming iOS Decoded videos.