Apple Unveils First Preview of Its Anticipated iPhone AI Features

On Monday, Apple introduced the initial version of Apple Intelligence, a comprehensive suite of artificial intelligence features designed to enhance Siri, generate emails and images automatically, and manage notifications more efficiently.

This new software, named Apple Intelligence, is now available in the developer beta of iOS 18.1, and also in beta versions for iPad and Mac. Currently, access is limited to registered Apple developers, who must pay an annual fee of $99 to join the Apple developer program.

Additionally, users must join a waitlist via Apple’s settings app after updating to the latest version to gain access to these advanced features, which rely on Apple servers for complex requests.

The public release is expected later this year, but the 18.1 version suggests that Apple Intelligence will not debut alongside new iPhone hardware, which typically launches with iOS 18 in the fall.

Apple Intelligence represents a significant initiative for the company, with investors anticipating that its seamless integration with Apple’s operating system could drive substantial upgrades in the coming years. Notably, the AI system will only be compatible with the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and newer models.

"We expect this iPhone cycle to remain strong for longer as AI feature sets (software and possibly hardware) improve in the 2025 iPhone," stated Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan in a note on Monday.

Features Available in the Preview:

• A revamped Siri interface with a glowing edge indicator.

• Enhanced Siri capabilities, including improved understanding of commands even when the speaker stumbles.

• Siri can now provide troubleshooting answers for Apple products.

• Improved photo search and automatic movie creation.

• AI-generated summaries for Mail, Messages, and voicemail transcriptions.

• Writing Tools, Apple's new text-generation service.

Features Yet to Be Released:

• Image generation.

• Emoji generation.

• Automated photo cleanup.

• Additional Siri enhancements, including using personal information and performing actions within apps.

• Integration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT.