8 New Features in iOS 18.3 Update: Improved Notifications, Visual Intelligence, and More
iOS 18.3 is now available for all iPhone users, bringing updates for both Apple Intelligence and non-AI devices. While major AI advancements aren’t included in this release, Apple has made some notable improvements to its user interface, including enhancements to Apple Intelligence.
This update temporarily disables notification summaries for news and entertainment apps due to accuracy concerns. However, iOS 18.3 also includes bug fixes, improvements to the Calculator app, and enables Apple Intelligence by default for new and upgrading users.
Table of Contents
1. Calculator: Repeat Calculations Are Back
iOS 18.3 brings back a much-loved feature, allowing users to perform repeated calculations directly within the Calculator app. This functionality, previously available in iOS 17, was removed in iOS 18 but has now been restored.
With the update, you may simply tap the equals button multiple times to continue the operation.
For example:If you calculate 25 × 25 and then tap the equals sign again, the result (625) will be multiplied by 25 again, producing 15,625. This process will continue each time you tap the equals sign.
2. Screenshot Cropping Alert
iOS 18.3 introduces a subtle enhancement to the screenshot editing experience. When cropping a full-page screenshot and saving it as a PDF, a new notification informs you that the cropped content is not removed from the underlying file. This helps prevent confusion by ensuring you’re aware that the cropped content might still be visible in some PDF viewer apps.
3. Camera Control Enhancements
iOS 18.3 introduces several upgrades to the Camera Control feature:
a) Lock Focus and Exposure
Apple has finally added a new Lock Focus and Exposure feature. By lightly pressing and holding the camera control button, you’re able to lock focus and exposure while capturing photos or videos. This ensures consistent results, even when moving the device.
This update could make the camera button more practical, especially since the previous implementation wasn’t well received by many iPhone users.
Also Read:
b) Accessibility Quick Access
A new quick-access menu for accessibility settings has been added to the Camera Control section. This update eliminates the need to navigate through multiple menus to find camera-related accessibility options.
c) Double-Click Speed Adjustment
You can now adjust the double-click speed for accessibility features within the Camera Control settings. This lets you fine-tune how quickly a double-click is registered.
4. Apple Intelligence Enabled by Default
One of the significant changes in iOS 18.3 is thatApple Intelligenceis now enabled by default. After updating, Apple Intelligence will be activated automatically on all eligible devices. This change aims to enhance the user experience by integrating Apple Intelligence features into daily iPhone use.
If you prefer to manage these features manually, you can easily opt out through the Settings app.
Note:Even when disabled, Apple Intelligence may still occupy some storage space on your device.
While there are no new updates to Siri in iOS 18.3,several major upgrades are expected with iOS 18.4. You’ll need to wait a little longer to experience the enhanced Siri Assistant on your iPhone.
5. Notification Summary Enhancements
6. Visual Intelligence Enhancements
Apple has made notable improvements toVisual Intelligence, an area that has previously lagged behind competitors like Samsung and Google.
7. Genmoji Quick Access
iOS 18.3 introduces a convenient shortcut for accessingGenmoji. A dedicated Genmoji icon has been added to the sidebar in the Messages app, allowing you to quickly access Genmoji while chatting. Check how it appears below.
8. Other Bug Fixes and Performance Enhancements on iOS 18.3
Apple has addressed several reported bugs from previous iOS updates:
iOS 18.3 also brings noticeable performance improvements, resulting in smoother overall operation. Additionally, many users have reported a minor improvement in battery life compared to previous iOS 18 versions.
Overall, iOS 18.3 delivers a blend of significant enhancements and improvements. Share your thoughts with us on X.
Anchit Srivastava
Working as a Tech Writer at Tech Wiser, I’m passionate about technology since childhood. I enjoy discussing it with friends, exploring new techs, and analyzing features in Android, iOS, and other technologies. My goal is to simplify complex information about current and emerging technologies, making them more accessible and understandable to people interested in learning more.
