iOS 18.1 Developer Beta 5 Released with Apple Intelligence in Messages and New Control Center Toggles: What’s New

On Monday, iOS 18.1 Developer Beta 5 was launched for eligible iPhone models. It builds on features Apple introduced in previous developer updates and public betas, adding new toggles in Control Center and an option to reset the layout to the default iOS configuration. Apple Intelligence — the company’s suite of artificial intelligence (AI) features — is now available in the company’s Messages app, adding new ways to quickly reply to chats and get message summaries.

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 beta testing the latest build will be able to see a summary of each of their unread conversations. Meanwhile, a new smart replies option allows them to choose an appropriate quick response to a message.

The Cupertino-based tech giant has added a special Apple Intelligence option to the Notes app. With the update, users can now access AI-powered writing tools such as proofreading and rewriting without having to highlight text and the writing tools option in a floating menu.

The update also includes new custom toggles that can be added to Control Center. These include Wi-Fi and VPN switches. If users don’t like their custom Control Center layout, they can reset it with a new setting that can be accessed by going to Settings and then Control Center.

Apple also expanded the availability of Rich Communication Services (RCS) messaging with iOS 18.1 Developer Beta 5. It is now supported by telecom providers Telenet, Proximus and BASE in Belgium, as well as TracFone and C Spire in the US. when using iPhone to Mac mirroring, users will now be able to 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 user interface (UI) changes.