Apple Inc. (AAPL) has launched iOS 18.1, an update that introduces Apple Intelligence, its highly anticipated artificial intelligence (AI) system, to the public.
This release is seen as a critical milestone for the company, especially as it powers the marketing push behind the recently released iPhone 16 lineup.
The update is available for iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 models. Apple Intelligence extends to iPads and Macs via separate software updates, expanding its reach across the Apple ecosystem.
CHECK THIS OUT: Despite Q3 Slump, Old Dominion Boosts Growth Investments
Apple Intelligence: A Different Approach to AI
Unlike its competitors, who have focused on cloud-based AI models powered by Nvidia (NVDA) chips, Apple is relying on device-based AI. Apple Intelligence uses the iPhone’s chip for most tasks, while complex queries are managed by the company’s servers.
This approach keeps the company’s AI system more localized and efficient for everyday use. To access Apple Intelligence, users need a compatible iPhone and must enable it in Settings, joining a waitlist for access.
Once enabled, large AI models will be downloaded to the phone, allowing the features to operate directly on the device.
Features of Apple Intelligence
The initial rollout of Apple Intelligence is focused on practical, user-centric tools, including:
Writing Tools: These tools allow users to proofread, rewrite, or change the tone of text within the iPhone’s interface. It works in all text-entry fields, including third-party apps, but does not generate text independently.
Photo Editing: Users can remove objects from photos and create short movies from images stored in their Photos app. The update also enhances the search feature in the Photos app, allowing users to search with natural language queries.
Notification Summarization: One of the standout features is its ability to summarize notifications into a single digestible message. For example, it can condense multiple market alerts from CNBC or group chat conversations into one easy-to-read notification.
Improved Siri: Siri gets a visual makeover, with the entire screen glowing around the phone’s edges during use. Siri can also answer questions about Apple products with a more natural-sounding voice. However, it still cannot take actions within apps, a feature expected to arrive in a future update.
Apple Intelligence will expand with iOS 18.2 later this year, adding ChatGPT functionality and image-generation capabilities to enhance features.
Market Impact and Analyst Outlook
The company’s release of Apple Intelligence comes at a time when investors have been seeking clarity on the company’s AI strategy.
The staggered AI launch is expected to boost iPhone 16 demand in coming months, with analysts optimistic about the company’s performance.
“Given the staggered launch of Apple Intelligence, we expect iPhone demand to pick up post-initial release,”
Bank of America Securities analyst, Wamsi Mohan
The Apple Intelligence rollout highlights the company’s commitment to improving user experience and addressing the increasing demand for AI on its devices.
New AI Features Signal Apple’s Commitment to Consumer Tech Innovation
As the company enters the AI race with Apple Intelligence, the company remains committed to its user-friendly, device-based approach.
The new features are expected to boost iPhone 16 demand and reinforce Apple’s leadership in consumer technology.
With advanced features upcoming, Apple Intelligence shows the company’s ambition to embed AI in daily use, paving the way for future innovations.
Read also: Tapestry Shares Surge 14% as FTC Blocks $8.5B Merger with Capri and JetBlue Flies High with Strategic Moves and Resilient Performance.
