iOS 18.2 removes Sketch style from Image Playground feature

In the latest beta version of iOS 18.2, Apple has only added Animation and Illustration styles, dropping the Sketch style. Is it a permanent drop, or will it feature later? Let's delve deeper.

In Short

• Image Playground app lacks Sketch style in iOS 18.2 beta
• Previously, the feature was described with three components: Animation, Illustration, Sketch
• iOS 18.2 stable version will be released in December

Apple has recently launched its second wave of Apple Intelligence, iOS 18.2 beta. The version is a replica of the stable version, for selected users to test and experience all the upcoming features. iOS 18.2 will introduce several new Apple Intelligence features, including ChatGPT integration in Siri. Other than this, the update will bring new AI-powered image editing tools. Image Playground is one of the most awaited tool. During WWDC 2024, Apple introduced the feature as a key feature, which would generate images in three styles: animation, illustration, and sketch. But now, it looks like Apple is taking a step back. The new iOS 18.2 beta version does not have the sketch style.

In the latest iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2 betas, the Image Playground app includes only animation and illustration styles, sparking questions about whether the sketch style might eventually be added. However, Apple recently edited the app’s description, removing any mention of Sketch. Previously, the description had highlighted a third option, Sketch, describing it as a highly detailed and academic style that creates beautiful drawings on plain backgrounds.

Apple hasn’t clarified why the sketch option was removed from Image Playground or if additional styles, including sketch, might be introduced in the future.

What is Image Playground?

Image Playground is a brand-new app designed to help you create images from your ideas. Much like ChatGPT, you can generate images by entering a prompt, with suggested categories like themes, locations, and costumes to spark inspiration. The app focuses on stylised content, so the images won’t be realistic and can be generated in Animation, Illustration or Sketch styles. You can also incorporate likenesses of friends and family by selecting images directly from your Photos app. While Image Playground works as a standalone app, it can also be integrated with apps like Notes and Messages, and even added to third-party applications.

The Image Playground is geared toward casual and professional users alike, giving them a more dynamic approach to photo and image editing directly on their iPhones.

iOS 18.2 launch and features

iOS 18.2 is confirmed to come in the first week of December. Apple will start rolling out the features to the eligible phones, which include iPhone 15 Pro models and iPhone 16 series. The iOS 18.2 update promises a range of exciting features, designed to enhance both productivity and personalisation for iPhone users. One notable addition is built-in ChatGPT, offering on-demand AI assistance directly within iOS.

This feature allows users to ask questions, generate text, or get quick help, seamlessly integrated across various apps. Another unique feature, Genmoji, lets users create custom, AI-powered emojis, providing a fun way to express themselves with unique, personalised icons that go beyond standard emoji options. Read more about iOS 18.2 here.