Apple has launched the first batch of "Apple Intelligence" features. The update comes with iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, which are now available for download. Apple first announced these features at WWDC 2024 in June. 

What is Apple Intelligence?

Apple says its Apple Intelligence is its new personal intelligence system designed to take advantage of Apple silicon devices. The setup focuses on on-device processing for privacy and speed. The feature handles most tasks directly on users' devices, while more complex processes run on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute system. Apple says this approach keeps user data more secure by reducing the need for cloud-based data processing.

Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, stated, “Apple Intelligence introduces a new era for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, delivering brand-new experiences and tools that will transform what our users can accomplish.” 

Key features in Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence includes several tools, like notification summaries, enhanced writing tools, and a refreshed interface for Siri. 

Writing tools

This feature lets users proofread, summarize, and rewrite text anywhere on the device.

Siri redesign 

According to Apple, Siri’s new interface can now understand the context between requests and offer smart replies. A “Type to Siri” feature also allows users to interact by typing instead of speaking, the platform said. 

Smart replies in mail and messages

Apple now suggests responses to messages to help speed up conversations.

Summaries

Apple Intelligence can summarize email threads, transcriptions in Notes, and website content in Safari.

Photos update

Memory Maker will let users create slideshows with just a description, while natural language search and a clean up tool can tidy up images.

Focus mode

The new "Reduce Interruptions" mode filters out non-essential notifications, showing only those that matter.

Device compatibility and rollout

Not all Apple devices are eligible for these new features. They’re only accessible on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, all iPhone 16 models, iPads with the A17 Pro chip (such as the new iPad mini) or M1 and later, and Macs with M1 or newer processors.

After installing the update, Apple prompts users to opt in to Apple Intelligence features, with a waitlist for access that should clear within a few hours.

Language support and expansion

These features are now available as a free update. They can be accessed in most regions when devices and Siri are set to U.S. English. Apple is expanding language support for Apple Intelligence. It will roll out localized English versions in several countries by December. Additional languages will launch in April.

Apple also released beta versions of iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2 for developers last week. The updates will add more Apple Intelligence features. They include Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, Image Wand, and ChatGPT integration. However, no official date is set for full release.