iOS 18 Public Beta 3: Unveiling the Latest Features and Enhancements

Apple's latest software iteration for the iPhone and iPad, iOS 18, has reached its third public beta release. Packed with a host of new features and enhancements, iOS 18 Public Beta 3 offers a glimpse into the upcoming major update scheduled for release this fall.

What's New in iOS 18 Public Beta 3?

1. Lock Screen Customization

• Enhanced lock screen customization with customizable widgets, fonts, and colors.
• New options for notifications, allowing users to filter by app, contact, or even specific conversations.
• Support for live widgets that display real-time information, such as weather, calendar events, or music recommendations.

2. Focus Modes

• Refined Focus Modes: Improved Focus Filters that can now hide specific content in apps and widgets, further minimizing distractions.
• Lock Screen Linking: Linking Focus Modes to specific lock screens, allowing for seamless transitions between different usage scenarios.
• Customizable Focus Mode Icons: Personalization of Focus Mode icons for better visual identification.

3. Messages

• Undo Send: Ability to recall recently sent messages within 15 minutes of sending.
• Edit Sent Messages: Correcting or modifying text in messages up to 15 minutes after sending.
• Mark as Unread: Option to mark messages as unread, allowing for easy retrieval later.

4. iCloud Shared Photo Library

• Centralized photo library shared among up to six family members or friends.
• Automatic sharing suggestions based on content and people.
• Collaborate on editing and adding photos to the shared library.

5. Safety Check

• New Safety Check Feature: Designed to protect users in situations involving interpersonal violence or privacy concerns.
• Emergency Reset: Swiftly reset permissions for apps and devices to enhance safety and privacy.
• Shareable Emergency Contact List: Easily share a list of emergency contacts with trusted individuals.

Why iOS 18 Matters

1. Enhanced Productivity

• Customizable Lock Screen Widgets: Information and app shortcuts at a glance, reducing the need to unlock the device.
• Focus Mode Enhancements: Minimized distractions and optimized workflows for specific tasks or scenarios.
• Message Recalling and Editing: Reduced errors and improved communication efficiency.

2. Improved Privacy

• Safety Check Feature: Protects users from potential privacy and safety risks.
• Focus Mode Filters: Conceals sensitive content from apps when Focus Modes are enabled.
• iCloud Shared Photo Library: Shared control over photo privacy and permissions.

3. Personalized Experience

• Lock Screen Customization: Unique and tailored lock screen designs that reflect individual preferences.
• Focus Mode Customization: Fine-tuned Focus Modes to match specific usage scenarios.
• Messages: Improved communication features and message handling for better user experience.

Tips and Tricks

• Customize Your Lock Screen: Explore the wide range of widgets, fonts, and colors to create a personalized lock screen experience.
• Use Focus Filters: Set up Focus Filters to filter out distractions and focus on specific tasks or activities.
• Share Your iCloud Photo Library: Collaborate on photo management and sharing with family and friends.
• Stay Safe with Safety Check: Familiarize yourself with the Safety Check feature to protect yourself in potentially unsafe situations.
• Edit Sent Messages: Avoid embarrassing typos or clarify messages by using the edit feature within 15 minutes of sending.

How to Install iOS 18 Public Beta 3

1. Backup Your Device: Create a backup of your iPhone or iPad before installing the beta to prevent data loss in case of any issues.
2. Enroll in the Apple Beta Software Program: Join the Apple Beta Software Program (beta.apple.com) using your Apple ID.
3. Install the Profile: Download and install the iOS 18 Public Beta 3 profile on your device.
4. Update Your Device: Go to Settings > General > Software Update and follow the on-screen instructions to install the beta software.

FAQs

1. When will iOS 18 be released?
iOS 18 is expected to be released to the public in the fall of 2022.

2. Is iOS 18 Public Beta 3 stable?
While beta software is generally less stable than official releases, iOS 18 Public Beta 3 has been reported to be relatively stable for daily use.

3. What devices are compatible with iOS 18?
iOS 18 is compatible with iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s, and iPhone 6s Plus.

4. Can I install iOS 18 Public Beta 3 on my iPad?
No, iOS 18 is only available for iPhone devices.

5. Is it safe to install iOS 18 Public Beta 3 on my primary device?
While iOS 18 Public Beta 3 has been reported to be stable, it is always recommended to install beta software on a secondary device due to the potential for bugs or issues.

6. How can I report bugs or issues with iOS 18 Public Beta 3?
You can submit bug reports or feedback through the Apple Feedback Assistant app on your device.

Table 1: New Features in iOS 18 Public Beta 3

Table 2: Benefits of iOS 18

Table 3: Compatibility of iOS 18 with iPhone Models