Apple has rolled out iOS 18 Public Beta 3 for iPhone users, introducing several new features not showcased at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 10. A notable addition is an option designed to reduce distractions while reading web pages in Safari. This update closely follows the release of iOS 18 Developer Beta 5, which brought similar enhancements to the Photos app and the home screen user interface (UI).
iOS 18 Public Beta 5 Update Features
One of the features highlighted at WWDC 2024 was a new carousel design in the Photos app. However, user feedback has been mixed, with some finding it overly complex for viewing photos and videos. In response, iOS 18 Public Beta 5 reverts this change, positioning the media library at the top and rearranging the Albums section. The Recent Days collection now includes saved images.
Safari’s New Feature: Hide Distracting Items
Safari receives a significant update with the “Hide Distracting Items” feature. This tool aims to declutter web pages by hiding elements such as ads and overlays, enhancing the reading experience. It can automatically select items to hide but also allows for manual selection. Despite its functionality, Apple clarifies that this feature is not an ad-blocker; hidden items will reappear if the page is refreshed.
Home Screen UI Tweaks
The update also brings several tweaks to the home screen UI. Icons for stock apps like Find My and Maps now have dark mode versions, while the Screen Mirroring and Cellular Data icons in the Control Centre have been adjusted. Additionally, a new “Edit Pages” option allows users to delete pages from the home screen by long-pressing on the screen.
Additional Beta Updates
In conjunction with the iOS 18 Public Beta 3 release, Apple has also rolled out the third public betas for iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, tvOS 18, and macOS Sequoia, further enhancing its ecosystem of devices.
These updates aim to refine the user experience by addressing feedback and introducing new, user-friendly features, solidifying Apple’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in its software offerings.