In-Depth: New Features and Changes in iOS 18.2 Beta 2 [Video]

The first beta of iOS 18.2 introduced a wealth of new changes and features, prominently featuring the second phase of Apple Intelligence. In this second beta, there’s further enhancement to Apple Intelligence alongside several other significant updates, including Camera Control AE/AF locking for iPhone 16 users, Find Lost Item tracking, and an option to disable video looping within the Photos app. Check out the full hands-on video walkthrough for more detailed insights.

What’s new in iOS 18.2 beta 2

My colleague Ryan has put together an excellent overview of the new features in iOS 18.2 beta 2, so I recommend reading his article regarding the public beta release. Together with my comprehensive video that explores around 20 new features and changes, I’ll highlight a few key points.

Video: Changes and Features in iOS 18.2 beta 2

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Option to Disable Video Looping

With the introduction of iOS 18, Apple enabled all videos in the Photos app to play continuously on loop. Although I appreciated this change, it’s clear not every user desires this functionality; thus, the option to disable looping in iOS 18.2 is a welcome addition. To locate this setting, navigate to Settings → All Apps → Photos, and toggle off the Looping feature.

 

 

AE/AF Lock with Camera Control

Another significant feature in the iOS 18.2 beta 2 update is the long-awaited AE/AF lock function via a sustained light press on the Camera Control button, a feature Apple hinted at during the iPhone 16 launch event.

AE stands for Auto Exposure, and AF means Auto Focus. Locking these settings maintains both the current exposure and focus, which is handy when adjusting the framing or changing the lighting conditions during a shot. While iPhone users previously needed to long press on the subject in view to lock these values, having a dedicated button for this purpose is a huge improvement.

 

 

Using the Camera Control button allows users to maintain steady camera movement and minimizes distractions. Furthermore, it simplifies resetting the exposure and focus since these settings can be easily undone by releasing the button.

Sharing Item Location

One of the significant new features included in iOS 18.2 beta 2 is the Share Item Location function found within the Find My app. This allows users to create a link that facilitates tracking of lost items by others, including companies like airlines.

The Share Item Location feature is compatible with AirTags and likely other Find My-enabled third-party accessories. The shared link stays active for seven days and will automatically deactivate once the item is found.

 

 

This capability could prove incredibly useful for tracking lost luggage, and as indicated in Apple’s Find My app, this will likely be one of the primary applications of this feature. Users can monitor how many times the link has been viewed and can disable the item location whenever desired.

DMN’s Opinion

These three features are just a glimpse of what’s new in the second beta of iOS 18.2. Be sure to watch the complete hands-on video walkthrough for a thorough examination of everything new. Additionally, check out my review of the first beta for insights into the full range of new Apple Intelligence features introduced in phase two.