Apple has officially rolled out its highly anticipated AI-focused update, Apple Intelligence, across its devices.
Starting Monday, users of supported iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices can access the first set of features introduced under Apple Intelligence, following months of speculation and excitement. This new functionality is part of the updates for iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, and it brings with it generative models designed by Apple, along with enhancements to existing software and a few novel tools.
How to Access Apple Intelligence
To begin utilizing Apple Intelligence, users must first ensure their devices are updated to the latest operating system. Here’s how to activate the new AI features:
- Update your device: Install iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, or macOS Sequoia 15.1.
- Navigate to Settings: Go to
Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri. - Join the waitlist: Sign up for the Apple Intelligence waitlist. After a brief waiting period, often just a few minutes, users can enable Apple Intelligence and explore additional settings.
Key Features of Apple Intelligence
The initial rollout of Apple Intelligence introduces several noteworthy features:
- Enhanced Writing Tools: Integrated into various apps, these tools allow users to rewrite text and summarize selected content. The writing tools also include a proofreading feature that suggests edits with explanations for each change, making it easier to refine your writing.
- Smart Priorities and Summaries: Messages that require immediate attention will now appear at the top of your email inbox. Users can also expect summary and smart reply options for emails, as well as summarized notifications that display key information on the Lock Screen.
- Siri Revamp: Siri has undergone a redesign that enhances its ability to process requests. The virtual assistant is now better equipped to understand and maintain context during conversations, even if users fumble their words. Additionally, users can now communicate with Siri by typing on their devices.
- Photos Enhancements: Building on the redesign from the previous OS update, the Photos app now includes a Clean Up tool to help users eliminate unwanted objects from images. Users can also search for photos using descriptive terms and create movies in Memories based on those descriptions.
- Other Notable Updates: A new Focus mode called Reduce Interruptions has been introduced, and the Notes app now supports audio and phone call transcriptions for added convenience.
Compatible Devices for Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence is available on a range of devices:
iPhones:
- iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPads:
- iPad Pro (M1 and later)
- iPad Air (M1 and later)
Macs:
- MacBook Air (M1 and later)
- MacBook Pro (M1 and later)
- iMac (M1 and later)
- Mac mini (M1 and later)
- Mac Studio (M1 Max and later)
- Mac Pro (M2 Ultra)
Upcoming Features for Apple Intelligence
The features introduced in this initial update are just the beginning of what Apple has planned for Apple Intelligence. Notably absent from this rollout are two highly anticipated features: Genmoji, which enables users to create custom emojis, and Image Playground, a tool for generating cartoon-like images and illustrations based on text prompts. Both features are now expected to be launched in December, likely as part of the iOS 18.2 update.
Another exciting addition on the horizon is the anticipated ChatGPT integration for Siri, which was also highlighted during the Apple Intelligence announcement at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).
Additionally, users can expect further enhancements to priority notifications, Siri capabilities, and writing tools as Apple continues to develop Apple Intelligence.
