iOS 18.1 brings the first suite of features for Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI technology. To access these features, you need an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, or iPhone 16 Pro running iOS 18.1 and must request access to Apple Intelligence. Some of the features include the ability to summarize notifications, emails, and web pages, making it easier to digest information quickly. Summaries can be generated from various sources, including text messages, news alerts, and social media apps, providing a convenient way to stay informed without being overwhelmed by information.
One of the key features of Apple Intelligence is the ability to generate summaries of notifications, emails, and web pages. Notifications are condensed into single-sentence summaries, providing a quick overview of the content. Additionally, emails can be summarized with a few dozen words, making it easier to scan through messages. In Safari, users can also generate summaries of long articles using the Reader interface, allowing for a more concise reading experience. While Apple Intelligence may not always capture the nuances of sarcasm or colloquialisms, users have the option to turn off summaries if preferred.
Siri receives an update in iOS 18.1, sporting a modern look with a multicolor halo around the edges on devices that support Apple Intelligence. This new look is accompanied by improvements in Siri’s interaction, making it more forgiving of errors and better at listening for follow-up questions. While the ability to personalize answers based on user preferences is still in development, Siri under Apple Intelligence offers a more refined user experience with enhanced interaction capabilities. Additionally, the integration of ChatGPT as an alternate source of information is expected in future updates.
Another feature introduced in iOS 18.1 is Clean Up in the Photos app, which uses AI technology to remove distractions from images. This tool analyzes photos and suggests potential items to remove, allowing users to tap or draw around areas to erase them. The app then uses generative AI to fill in plausible pixels, resulting in a cleaner image. While Clean Up may not always deliver perfect results, it provides a quick and convenient way to eliminate distractions from photos. This feature is a welcome addition for users who need to retouch their photos on the go without relying on external editing tools.
Overall, iOS 18.1 marks the beginning of Apple’s AI age, offering users a glimpse of the potential benefits of Apple Intelligence. With features like summaries for notifications, emails, and web pages, an updated Siri experience, and a tool to remove distractions from photos, Apple is paving the way for a more intelligent and user-friendly ecosystem. As more features are added and improvements are made, Apple Intelligence is set to become a valuable asset for users looking to streamline their digital experiences. The future of AI technology on Apple devices is promising, and iOS 18.1 sets the stage for further advancements in this field.
