Apple’s latest update for iPad, iPadOS 18.4, introduces a range of new features and improvements that enhance the user experience across multiple apps. This update focuses on enhancing productivity, creativity, and content consumption on iPad devices. Let’s explore the key changes and additions in this significant update.
Mail Categorization: A New Way to Manage Your Inbox
iPadOS 18.4 introduces a game-changing feature for email management: Mail Categorization. This intelligent sorting system automatically organizes your incoming messages into distinct categories, helping you focus on what matters most.
How Mail Categorization Works
Mail Categorization uses on-device machine learning to analyze your emails and sort them into the following categories:
- Primary: Important personal and time-sensitive emails
- Promotions: Marketing emails and offers
- Transactions: Receipts, shipping notifications, and financial statements
- Updates: Newsletters, social media notifications, and subscriptions
Step 1: Open the Mail app after updating to iPadOS 18.4.
Step 2: Look for the new category tabs at the top of your inbox.
Step 3: Tap on each category to view the sorted emails.
This feature streamlines your email workflow by allowing you to quickly prioritize and address important messages while keeping promotional content and updates organized separately.
Photos App Enhancements: Better Organization and Filtering
The Photos app receives several updates in iPadOS 18.4, making it easier to manage and navigate your photo library.
New Filtering Options
Step 1: Open the Photos app and go to the Library view.
Step 2: Tap the filter icon in the top-right corner.
Step 3: Explore new filter options, including:
- Show/hide items not in albums
- Show/hide items synced from Mac or PC
These filters help you quickly find specific photos or clean up your library by focusing on unorganized content.
Improved Album Management
iPadOS 18.4 introduces new ways to organize your albums:
- Sort albums by Date Modified
- Reorder items in Media Types and Utilities collections
- Disable “Recently Viewed” and “Recently Shared” collections in Photos Settings
To reorder your albums:
Step 1: Go to the Albums tab in Photos.
Step 2: Tap “Edit” in the top-right corner.
Step 3: Press and hold an album, then drag it to your desired position.
These changes give you more control over how your photo library is organized and displayed.
Apple News+: A Culinary Revolution
Apple News+ subscribers will be delighted with the new Food section, bringing a wealth of culinary content to their iPads.
Recipe Catalog
The new Recipe Catalog feature allows you to:
- Browse and search for recipes from top food publishers
- Save favorite recipes to your personal collection
- Use the new Cooking mode for easy step-by-step instructions while preparing meals
To access the Recipe Catalog:
Step 1: Open the Apple News app.
Step 2: Tap on the new “Food” tab in the bottom navigation bar.
Step 3: Explore the Recipe Catalog by tapping on “Browse Recipes” or using the search function.
Beyond Recipes
The Food section isn’t just about cooking. It also includes:
- Restaurant reviews and recommendations
- Healthy eating tips and nutritional advice
- Kitchen gadget reviews and cooking techniques
This addition to Apple News+ transforms your iPad into a comprehensive culinary companion, perfect for home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
Apple Intelligence Expansion
For iPad users with M1 chips or later, iPadOS 18.4 expands Apple Intelligence capabilities:
- Priority Notifications: Important alerts now appear at the top of your notification list
- Sketch Style in Image Playground: Create beautiful drawings with a new artistic style
- Language Support: Apple Intelligence now works with 8 additional languages and 2 new English locales
To use the new Sketch Style in Image Playground:
Step 1: Open the Image Playground app.
Step 2: Tap the “+” button to create a new image.
Step 3: Select “Sketch” from the available style options.
Step 4: Use the Apple Pencil or your finger to draw, and watch as your sketches come to life with artistic flair.
Other Notable Improvements
iPadOS 18.4 also includes several other enhancements:
- Safari: Recent search suggestions help you quickly return to previous topics
- App Store: New summaries for user reviews provide quick insights
- Podcasts: New widgets for followed shows and library sections
- Ambient Music: Instantly play curated playlists from Control Center
- Matter Support: Control compatible robot vacuum cleaners in the Home app
iPadOS 18.4 is a substantial update that refines the iPad experience across multiple apps and services. From smarter email management to enhanced photo organization and a delicious new addition to Apple News+, this update offers something for every iPad user. Don’t forget to back up your device before updating, and enjoy exploring all the new features!