Apple has launched iOS 18.1, introducing its new artificial intelligence feature, Apple Intelligence, for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 Pro. In addition, software updates for iPads and Macs have been released that include Apple Intelligence. This release is significant for Apple as it aims to boost its marketing for the newly launched iPhone 16. It also addresses market inquiries regarding Apple’s AI strategy. Unlike major competitors that utilize cloud-based AI systems reliant on advanced Nvidia chips, Apple has opted for device-based AI. The initial features of Apple Intelligence include tools for proofreading or rewriting text, object removal from photos, and summarizing notifications.
The update also enhances Siri, giving it a new interface that illuminates the phone’s edges. Siri is now more equipped to answer questions about Apple products and features improved voice options. However, Siri still lacks the ability to perform actions within apps, which is expected in an upcoming update next year. Another update, introducing ChatGPT integration and image generation capabilities, is planned for later this year as part of iOS 18.2. Some investors believe that Apple Intelligence could trigger a significant upgrade cycle, reinforcing Apple’s position in advanced AI usage. Bank of America Securities analyst Wamsi Mohan noted expectations for increased iPhone demand following the full launch of Apple Intelligence later in October.
To access Apple Intelligence, users must have an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or any model from the iPhone 16 series. The feature utilizes the phone’s chip, making it incompatible with older models, although some more complex queries will be processed by Apple’s servers. Users must enable Apple Intelligence in the Settings app, which places them on a waitlist. Apple has not specified the wait time, but during beta testing, users generally received access within the same day. Following this, users will download essential AI models required for Apple Intelligence to function.