Apple has announced the public release of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, marking the debut of its Apple Intelligence features. Unlike previous minor updates, this release introduces significant enhancements as Apple Intelligence was not ready for the initial rollout of iOS 18. The iPhone 16 series was initially marketed as “built for Apple Intelligence,” but these features were absent at launch. Consequently, this update is particularly anticipated. Owners of older devices may see less impact, as only the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max from prior generations support Apple Intelligence.
Users will be notified by Apple if they can access Apple Intelligence. The initial AI features include writing tools such as proofreading and rewriting, alongside text summaries. The update also offers live transcriptions for phone calls and audio notes, with Apple providing summaries of these transcriptions. Furthermore, the Photos app has been revamped, allowing users to organize photos and videos around memorable events and create their own Memories.
The update includes early changes to Siri, now allowing typed requests and questions. Siri can recognize requests even if spoken with interruptions or stutters. There’s a new glowing border around the screen when activating Siri. However, users will need to wait for further Siri enhancements that provide a deeper understanding of personal context.
Apple Intelligence is supported on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 lineup, as well as M-series iPads and Macs, including the new A17 Pro-powered iPad mini. Access is presently limited to devices set to US English, but expansion to additional countries and languages is expected in December. Apple is in discussions to extend these features to the European Union and Chinese mainland.
iOS 18.1 introduces several other features, including a hearing test and the ability to use AirPods Pro as hearing aids. Adjustments have also been made to simplify changing the email address linked to an Apple Account.
Further Apple Intelligence features are expected in the future. Apple has released developer betas for iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2, which include additional writing tools, a custom emoji generator, animated-image creation, and ChatGPT integration.
Globally, Apple will add localized English support for several regions in December, with an April update expanding language support beyond English to include languages such as Chinese, French, German, and more. Additional unspecified languages are also planned for support.
To update an iPhone to iOS 18.1, users should:
1. Open the “Settings” app and select “General.”
2. Tap on “Software Update.”
3. Load the latest software update available, then choose “update now” or “update tonight.”
4. Enter the iPhone’s passcode to begin the update.