iOS 18.1 Developer Beta 5 brings Apple Intelligence to Messages app

iOS 18.1 Developer Beta 5 update features

One of the most notable highlights of the iOS 18.1 Developer Beta 5 update is the introduction of Apple Intelligence in Messages. iPhone users who are testing the latest version will be able to see a summary of each unread conversation. Meanwhile, new smart reply options enable them to choose the appropriate message to reply to quickly.

The Cupertino-based tech giant has added a dedicated Apple Intelligence option to the Notes app. After the update, users can now access AI-driven writing tools such as proofreading and rewriting without having to select text and choose writing tool options from the floating menu.

The update also brings new dedicated switches that can be added to Control Center. These include Wi-Fi and VPN switching. If users don’t like the custom layout of Control Center, they can reset it with new settings, which can be accessed by navigating to Settings and then Control Center.

Apple has also expanded the availability of Rich Communications Services (RCS) messages with the iOS 18.1 Developer Beta 5 update. The feature is now supported by telecom providers Telenet, Proximus and BASE in Belgium and TracFone and C Spire in the US. When using iPhone Mirroring with a Mac, users can now drag and drop files between devices, improving interoperability. However, this feature requires iPhone and Mac to be running iOS 18.1 Developer Beta 5 and macOS Sequioa 15.1 respectively.

Other tweaks include a new dark mode icon for Apple Intelligence in Settings, a redesigned Apple Watch app icon, and other changes to the user interface (UI).