Apple has officially rolled out iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1 today, marking the debut of its new generative AI features. These updates were first announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June.
The new AI capabilities are available exclusively to users with compatible devices, including the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, iPhone 16 models, iPads powered by the A17 Pro chip (including the new iPad mini), and Macs with an M1 chip or newer.
After installing the update, users will be prompted to opt in to the Apple Intelligence features. Once selected, they will be placed on a waitlist, with the process typically taking only a few hours. This waitlist is due to the high computational demands of these features, which rely on offboard servers.
Unlike other AI systems such as ChatGPT, Apple’s generative AI uses a more focused approach for enhanced performance. Rather than relying on massive datasets, the system is trained on a curated selection of data for specific functions, allowing for a more targeted and efficient user experience.
The first wave of Apple Intelligence tools includes features for writing assistance, image cleanup, article summaries, and an updated Siri typing input. Apple is already working on additional enhancements, with iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2, currently in beta, set to introduce more AI-powered tools.
Future updates will include features such as Genmoji, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, Image Wand, and integration with ChatGPT, though Apple has yet to announce a timeline for their general availability.
These updates signal Apple’s continued push into the AI space, blending innovative technology with its signature emphasis on user privacy and efficiency.
Babatunde Philips