Apple is gearing up to launch iOS 18.4 Beta 1, expected to arrive in the first half of February. The update will introduce significant upgrades to Siri and expand Apple Intelligence capabilities.
Siri Gets Smarter
The upcoming beta will refine Siri’s capabilities, integrating a new app intent system that enhances on-screen context awareness. This feature will help Siri better understand and respond to user commands. Developers were encouraged to start working on this system with iOS 18.2, and Apple is now moving forward with implementation.
![Siri glowing animation on a dark background.](https://www.tuaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/apple.webp)
Apple Intelligence Expansion
Apple continues to gradually expand its Apple Intelligence features, which debuted in iOS 18.1. The previous updates introduced tools like system-wide summaries and writing enhancements. In iOS 18.4, Apple aims to extend language support for Apple Intelligence, adding Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
New Emojis Coming Soon
Alongside Siri’s improvements, iOS 18.4 is likely to include the Unicode 16 update, bringing seven new emojis. Expected additions include a root vegetable, a face with bags under the eyes, a shovel, a harp, a splatter, a leafless tree, and a fingerprint.
Recent iOS Updates and What’s Next
Apple released iOS 18.3 in late January, focusing on enhancing Apple Intelligence features. That update improved Visual Intelligence and refined the notification summary system. With iOS 18.4 Beta 1, Apple is expected to push its AI-driven tools further while fine-tuning Siri’s user experience.
Apple has yet to announce the official release date, but reports suggest the beta could roll out between mid-February and early March. Users eager to test the latest improvements should keep an eye on Apple’s developer and public beta programs.
Final Thoughts
iOS 18.4 Beta 1 marks another step in Apple’s broader strategy to enhance Siri and integrate AI-driven capabilities across its ecosystem. With expanded language support, smarter Siri interactions, and new emojis, the update promises a more intuitive user experience.