Apple Rolls Out New AI-Powered Features with iOS 18.1 – Here’s What to Expect
Discover Apple’s latest AI innovations in iOS 18.1, now available on iPhone 15 Pro models and select devices. From enhanced Siri to AI-driven writing tools, explore Apple Intelligence features designed to simplify daily tasks.
Apple has introduced its much-anticipated Apple Intelligence features through iOS 18.1, offering users a suite of advanced AI tools originally previewed at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June. Previously limited to developer and public beta versions, these features are now widely accessible — with a few exceptions. While Apple Intelligence is available globally, users in the EU and China will still need to wait, as access is currently restricted in these regions. To activate Apple Intelligence, make sure your language settings are set to U.S. English.
Setting Up Apple Intelligence
To start using Apple Intelligence, follow these steps:
Open the Settings app.
Navigate to the Apple Intelligence & Siri menu.
Enable Apple Intelligence using the toggle.
Your iPhone will then download the necessary AI models and system updates, notifying you once the setup is complete. Currently, Apple Intelligence is compatible with the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and any iPad or Mac powered by an M1 chip.
Key Features Available with Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence brings a variety of tools to enhance daily user experience:
Enhanced Siri Experience
The AI-powered Siri sports a new animation and allows text-based interaction. Double-tap on the bottom bar to type to Siri in noisy environments. Plus, Siri can now understand and correct interrupted commands — for instance, setting a timer for “10 minutes, no, 15 minutes.”
System How-To Guidance
Users can now ask Siri for assistance on system functions, like, “How do I take a screen recording?” making tech support more accessible than ever.
Also Read: Apple’s iOS 18.3 to Introduce AI-Powered Siri Enhancements in January 2025
Advanced Writing Tools
Apple Intelligence now supports various writing aids across iOS. Use “Proofread” for grammar checks, or “Rewrite” to refine text while keeping the core message intact. You can also adjust tone through options like “Friendly,” “Professional,” or “Concise.” Text summarization tools help turn long passages into lists or tables for quick overviews.
Upgraded Mail App Features
The Mail app now includes one-line email summaries, helping users preview messages at a glance. Important emails are highlighted at the top, and AI-driven quick replies make responding easier and faster.
Intuitive Photo Searches and Memories
Search your photo library using natural language and create custom memories with prompts, enhancing how you organize and relive moments.
Smart Notification Summaries
Apple Intelligence provides summaries of selected message and email notifications, helping users prioritize essential updates.
Call Transcription and Recording
Users can record calls with a single tap, with recordings automatically saved in a new “Call Recordings” folder within the Notes app. Transcriptions are also available for easy reference.
Notes App Audio Transcription
Record and transcribe audio directly within the Notes app, with an automatic summary of each recording for easier navigation and review.
Image Cleanup Tools
The AI now offers the ability to remove objects from photos with a tap on pre-selected areas or by manually drawing around objects. Although object removal and other interactive features are still being developed, Apple Intelligence already delivers a range of practical tools.
Future Updates
Apple Intelligence is still evolving, with several highly anticipated features like object removal in images, interactive emoji, and AI playgrounds expected in future updates. While a release timeline for these additions hasn’t been confirmed, they are expected to add even more versatility to the platform.
Also Read: iOS 18: Apple’s Latest Update Brings Smarter AI, Enhanced Privacy, and Customization