Apple has released iOS 18.1 beta 5 for developers with a series of new features and improvements. Refining some of the changes that came with iOS 18 and preparing new features for the iPhone 16, this beta has several interesting changes. The update scheduled in a few weeks will bring new features, including adjustments in the Control Center, improvements in camera functions, and better support for the RCS protocol.
Improvements in the Control Center: new controls and restoration
One of the improvements that iOS 18 brings is greater customization of the Control Center. This new beta version of iOS 18.1 adds two new controls that can be used independently: one for Wi-Fi and another for VPN. With these controls, we have more direct and specific access to these functions, something that was integrated within the connectivity button in previous versions.
Additionally, Apple has added a feature that allows us to restore the Control Center to its default settings. This option is found within Settings > Control Center and offers us a quick return to the standard configuration.
New features in the camera control of the iPhone 16
The iPhone 16 is one of the big beneficiaries of iOS 18.1 beta 5. In this version, Apple has added a new option in the Camera Control, which allows us to switch between the rear cameras of the iPhone and now also access the front camera directly from the button.
To make this change, simply open the camera app, lightly press the Camera Control button to open the menu, and then scroll to the camera options. Here you will find the new setting to activate the front camera, to the left of the 0.5x camera.
Fast file transfer comes to the iPhone mirror
iOS 18.1 beta 5 also brings improvements to the iPhone’s mirroring function. With this update, it is now possible to drag and drop files between iPhone and Mac when using screen mirroring. This feature works even when the iPhone is locked, which makes it much easier to transfer files from one device to another.
Minor changes and other improvements
Another improvement in iOS 18.1 beta 5 is the expansion of support for the RCS (Rich Communication Services) protocol, a standard that improves cross-device messaging. In this update, Apple has extended RCS support to more international operators: Telenet, Proximus, and BASE in Belgium, as well as TracFone and C Spire in the United States.
Among other more subtle changes in iOS 18.1 beta 5, the Apple Watch app icon—which now does not show the side button—has been modified, the interface of the Login Security section within the Apple account has been adjusted, and a new action in Shortcuts allows you to open the Control Center directly.
In addition, the Notes app now has a dedicated button for Apple Intelligence’s writing tools, and the Messages app welcomes us with a pop-up window on how Apple Intelligence integrates into the app.
iOS 18.1 beta 5 continues refining details of how we use our iPhone while preparing new features for its upcoming release. A release that, according to the usual schedule, should take place this coming October. A release with innovations such as Apple Intelligence and a long list of other small details.
