Apple Introduces Apple Intelligence: How to Access it on Your iPhone

On Monday, Apple launched iOS 18.1, which features their new artificial intelligence known as Apple Intelligence. This update is available for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 Pro, alongside software updates for iPads and Macs.

This release is a significant milestone for Apple as it aims to leverage this feature in its marketing strategy for the iPhone 16 series, which was introduced last month.

Moreover, the initial rollout of Apple Intelligence serves as Apple's response to market analysts keen to understand its AI strategy. Unlike its tech giants like Google and Microsoft that focus on cloud-based AI, Apple’s approach harnesses the AI capabilities directly on the device.

Currently, Apple Intelligence has limited features. The initial offerings include writing tools for proofreading and rewriting text, capabilities to remove objects from images, and a function to condense multiple notifications into a single summary.

The latest update has also brought enhancements to Siri, which now showcases a more vibrant interface with an illuminated screen edge. Siri has improved functionality, such as answering queries regarding Apple products and troubleshooting, and has been equipped with more natural voice options.

However, it is important to note that Siri cannot perform actions within applications yet; this functionality is anticipated in a future update next year. Additionally, there are plans to include ChatGPT features and image generation capabilities in the upcoming iOS 18.2 update, expected later this year.

Some investors believe that Apple Intelligence might spark a major upgrade cycle for the iPhone and solidify Apple’s position in the daily use of advanced AI features.

"Given the staggered launch of Apple Intelligence, we expect iPhone demand to pick up post initial release in late October," stated Wamsi Mohan, an analyst at Bank of America Securities.

How to Access Apple Intelligence

To install and use Apple Intelligence, you need an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or any model within the iPhone 16 range. This service utilizes the iPhone’s chip, which is why earlier iPhone models are incompatible, although some complex queries are processed by Apple’s servers.

To enable Apple Intelligence, you must request access through the Settings app. This will place you on a waitlist, but Apple has yet to provide an estimated wait time. During the summer beta tests, users often received access within the day. Once approved, your phone will download the necessary AI models that enable Apple Intelligence.

The standout feature is the ability to summarize notifications. Instead of having numerous notifications cluttering the screen, Apple Intelligence simplifies this into a single digestible notification. Although still in development, this functionality can help consolidate multiple alerts like stock market updates from CNBC or lengthy group chat threads.

Additionally, users will notice an updated Siri interface, which can be accessed by swiping up from the bottom of the screen, allowing users to type their queries instead of speaking them out loud.

Apple's Writing Tools are integrated throughout the OS, allowing edits in any text field, including third-party applications. Users can select text to rewrite it in styles such as “friendly,” “professional,” or “concise.” However, it should be noted that these tools won’t generate entire paragraphs autonomously.

Updates have also been made to Apple’s Mail and Photos apps. The Photos app now features a smarter search that comprehends natural language requests and can generate short videos from selected photos.

To download iOS 18.1, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. To join the Apple Intelligence waitlist, go to Settings > Apple Intelligence and Siri > Join the Apple Waitlist.

Apple, AI, iPhone