Anticipating Apple's Intelligence Features

Key Highlights

  • The first set of Apple Intelligence features debuted in the iOS 18.1 developer beta.
  • Apple Intelligence is expected to officially launch in October 2024.
  • AI writing tools will assist in Mail, Notes, and Pages, while email summaries in the Mail app preview window will save time.
  • Safari's Reader Mode will offer AI-generated article summaries, and Notes will include call recording and AI-generated transcripts.

  • Anticipating Apple's Intelligence Features

    At the June Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple introduced Apple Intelligence, set to be available on devices in September with the iOS 18 rollout and new iPhones. This new AI suite promises enhanced Siri, generative AI features, and AI emojis called ‘GenMoji.’

    While some features are available in the iOS 18.1 developer beta, rumors of delays have created a buzz. Techopedia aims to clarify whether Apple Intelligence will revolutionize user interactions with iPhones, iPads, and Macs or if we’ll face delays and minor updates.


    Understanding Apple Intelligence

    Apple Intelligence is a personal AI system for iPhones, iPads, and Macs. With generative AI, iOS 18 will enhance content creation and significantly improve Siri. This AI system is designed to be accessible to all users, prioritizing privacy and understanding personal context to provide timely assistance.


    When Will Apple Intelligence Be Available?

    Expected Release Date: After iPhone 16

    Developers can explore Apple Intelligence features in the iOS 18.1 developer beta, but the official release is more complicated. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests a release in October, a month after iOS 18 and the iPhone 16. However, features like iPhone Mirroring on Mac and SharePlay Screen Sharing may not arrive in the EU until 2025 due to regulatory issues.


    Supported Devices

    Apple Intelligence will be compatible with newer devices: iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, iPads with M1, M2, or M4 chips, and Macs with M1, M2, or M3 chips. Older devices, including Apple Watch, won't support these features, pushing users to upgrade.


    Features in Apple Intelligence Beta

    Writing Tools

    Apple’s AI writing tools will assist in Mail, Notes, and Pages, helping users check for mistakes, rewrite content, or get quick summaries. Notes will turn audio into text and summarize meetings, making corporate tasks more efficient.


    Mail App & AI

    AI in the Mail app will summarize emails in the preview window, highlighting urgent messages and displaying them on the lock screen. Smart Reply will offer contextual responses, helping users manage their inbox more effectively.

    Safari Digests

    Safari's Reader Mode will summarize long articles, allowing users to decide whether to read the full content or just the essential points.


    Improved Siri

    AI-enhanced Siri will make it easier to find answers to Apple-related questions and understand users better, even if they alter their questions mid-sentence. The fully AI-enhanced Siri is expected next year.


    Call Recording & Transcriptions

    Recording calls will be straightforward, with recordings and AI-generated transcripts stored in Notes. This feature will streamline capturing and reviewing important conversations.


    Looking Ahead: Apple’s AI Roadmap

    Many promised AI features, like the “Clean up” tool in Photos, ChatGPT integration, and the fully AI-enhanced Siri, will roll out gradually, with some not expected until 2025. Despite delays, Apple’s focus on practical AI improvements over flashy gimmicks is a positive approach.

    While the official release date for Apple Intelligence remains uncertain, the steady development of useful AI features promises to enhance user experience on Apple devices.