The iOS 18 public beta is finally here, giving testers a chance to try out new iPhone features that will be officially released later this year. The new tweaks Apple is adding in the next big update may seem endless, but we’ve pared down the list to the top five most useful features.
From Tap to Cash to RCS messaging, let us guide you through how to use the best features of the latest iOS 18 public beta. But first, you need to install it. (We have a guide on how to install the iOS 18 public beta here.) Keep in mind that the iOS 18 public beta is still fairly unpolished and raw, so make sure you have an iPhone backup handy before installing.
iOS 18 public beta: 5 most useful features
Now that you have the iOS 18 public beta installed on your iPhone (and hopefully you have a backup, because it’s a risky install), let’s dive into the top five most useful features.
1. Wi-Fi password sharing QR code
If you have loved ones visiting frequently and you can never seem to remember your Wi-Fi password, you can generate a QR code for easy sharing. You can also print it so that trusted users always have access to it.
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To get this feature, please visit password and click Wifi. Next, click on the credential you want to share, then click Display the network QR code.
2.RCS messaging
Perhaps under pressure from large technology companies such as Google and Samsung, Apple finally provided RCS messaging support to iPhone users. In other words, the feature gap between Android and iPhone messaging will shrink significantly. High-resolution media sharing should be smoother, and typing indicators and read receipts should be a thing.
You can enable RCS messaging by going to Settings > Apps > Messages Before clicking the switch next to RCS Messaging. (If you don’t see this option, your carrier might not support it.)
Mix and match speed of light
Now, sending text messages to Android users won’t feel as different as usual, but you’ll still see the green bubble.
3.Click Cash
You can easily send money from one iPhone to another using the new Tap to Cash feature.
Photo credit: Kimberly Gedeon/Mashable
Go to Apple Wallet and click “cash” card. beat Send or request button. Finally, enter the recipient’s name.
4.Satellite SMS
Satellite connections are no longer reserved for emergencies. Now you can send messages to friends and loved ones No A Wi-Fi and cellular connections. You can do this by swiping down on your iPhone to display Control Center. Next, click satellite before batting Try the demo.
Photo credit: Kimberly Gedeon/Mashable
Next, click message followed by Satellite connection demonstration. You will then be prompted to temporarily turn off your cellular network. Next, you must stand with a clear view of the sky and wait for the satellite to connect. (I had to wait three minutes.)
5. Voice memo transcription
Did you know that in iOS 18, all of your recordings can be transcribed? All you need to do is navigate to the Voice Memos app, record a message, and tap the three-dot icon in the upper right corner of the recording.
Photo credit: Kimberly Gedeon/Mashable
tap View transcript Check out the iOS 18 speech-to-text feature in action.
Want to see Apple Intelligence on this list? Unfortunately, Apple Intelligence functionality is not available in the latest beta version. In fact, many Apple Intelligence features may not appear until 2025.
