iOS 18.3 Activates Apple Intelligence by Default

Apple is preparing to release the iOS 18.3 update in the upcoming days, which will introduce Apple Intelligence as a feature that is automatically enabled.

The release candidate beta update is now available, indicating no further changes are expected before the official launch. The change was noted by 9to5Mac in the release notes.

This update will ensure that Apple Intelligence is activated by default for new iPhones running iOS 18.3 as well as for those upgrading their existing devices. Users who do not wish to use Apple Intelligence will need to turn it off manually.

Previously, users had to enable Apple Intelligence features through their settings to access them.

The release notes state: “For users new or upgrading to iOS 18.3, Apple Intelligence will be enabled automatically during iPhone onboarding. Users will have access to Apple Intelligence features after setting up their devices. To disable Apple Intelligence, users will need to navigate to the Apple Intelligence & Siri Settings pane and turn off the Apple Intelligence toggle. This will disable Apple Intelligence features on their device.”

Similar updates will apply to iPadOS and macOS for users updating their software. While there has been speculation that this could indicate Apple Intelligence is leaving its beta phase, it appears unlikely since many features are still incomplete.

In addition to introducing this change, iOS 18.3 will enhance certain aspects of Apple Intelligence. However, there are no significant new features introduced. One existing feature is being refined; the Notification Summaries that utilize AI to condense notifications will be disabled for News and Entertainment apps due to previous inaccuracies that led to the spread of misinformation.

Apple aims to familiarize users with Apple Intelligence, yet it was prudent to initially offer it as an opt-in feature. This is important since it is a feature that some users might be hesitant to embrace fully. Elements like ChatGPT integration with Siri may be seen as concerning by some users and likely remain opt-in.

Apple, iOS, update