Public betas for iOS 18 and other major upcoming operating system updates are now live. After some developer testing during the past month to refine those updates, Apple is allowing them out for wider use in advance of their full public release a couple of months hence.
Apple Releases HomePod Mini in New Midnight Color
Apple also quietly released a modest hardware refresh this week, with the newly named HomePod mini simply replacing Space Gray for an almost identical Midnight color.
iOS 18 Public Beta Now Available
Apple has just released the first public beta of iOS 18, which is available absolutely free for iPhone users. Keep in mind that beta software is never as stable as its final releases so you should only install the update on a secondary device.
iOS 18 Features
iOS 18 adds additional Home Screen and Control Center Appearance options, a refreshed Photos app design, using any emoji as Tapback in Messages along with the ability to lock apps by Face ID or Touch ID. The standout feature is Apple Intelligence, a suite of generative AI features coming to iPhone 15 Pro models and newer later this year.
HomePod Mini in New Midnight Color
Apple has thus announced the HomePod mini in the new Midnight color, replacing the Space Gray. There are no other changes to the HomePod mini, and it continues to cost $99 in the United States. With almost the same color, existing HomePod mini customers have no incentive to acquire another shade.
iPhone 16 Series Preview
In two months, the next-generation iPhone 16 series will be offered, and rumors are already circulating. The most significant improvements are the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, which now have more prominent displays.
2024 Apple Watch Lineup: Key Changes Expected
Next-generation Apple Watch models, including the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE next-generation, are also available alongside the iPhone 16 series. Rumored changes include larger display sizes and new health features like sleep apnea detection.
iOS 18 Passwords App
iOS 18 introduces a standalone Passwords app, bringing some iCloud Keychain functionality to a more convenient, simplified layout. A recent guide highlights all the features built into the Passwords app.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro
Samsung’s new Galaxy Buds 3 Pro earbuds resemble Apple AirPods Pro 2. A comparison of the design, performance, and features of both is available. While Apple users will likely prefer AirPods Pro and Android users may opt for the Galaxy Buds, it’s insightful to see what the competition offers.
FAQs
What’s new in iOS 18?
It offers customization options, a redesigned Photos app, emoji Tapbacks in Messages, and app locking with Face ID or Touch ID.
What’s different about the new HomePod mini color?
The HomePod mini now comes in Midnight color, replacing Space Gray, with no other changes.
