Tech Desk 
Oct 26, 2024
Apple’s upcoming iOS 18.2 update, currently in the developer beta phase, introduces a new visual intelligence feature, similar to Google’s Circle to Search, exclusively for the iPhone 16 series.
With this update, users can scan their surroundings to receive information about objects or locations through ChatGPT or Google’s reverse image search.
Read more: iOS 18.2 — Apple reintroduces volume slider with 'Always Show Volume Control'
Spotted by 9to5Mac, this feature allows users to ask Siri to identify objects or buildings simply by pointing the camera. Siri takes a screenshot, sends it to OpenAI’s servers, and ChatGPT provides a description, enabling users to ask follow-up questions for more details. Users on iOS 18.2 can also take a photo and ask ChatGPT to analyse it, though this alternative may take slightly longer.
Additionally, Siri’s capabilities are set to evolve further. By mid-2025, Apple plans to enable Siri to natively detect on-screen content and perform tasks within apps without relying on ChatGPT. This advancement promises even greater functionality, enhancing Siri’s role as a virtual assistant.
The full release of iOS 18.2 is expected in December, and those with developer access can try the first beta now. This update marks another step towards bridging AI and user convenience, offering Apple users a glimpse of enhanced visual search and interaction directly from their devices.
