Apple’s answer to AI is continuing to evolve, with more marquee features expected to hit in December.
Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June introduced a new era of innovation: Apple Intelligence, the company’s groundbreaking approach to integrating AI into its devices. After a modest but exciting rollout in October, Apple is stepping up with iOS 18.2, along with updates for macOS and iPadOS. This release promises a richer suite of features like Genmoji, Image Playground, and ChatGPT integration.
Here’s a closer look at what Apple Intelligence offers now and what’s coming in the near future.
Getting Started with Apple Intelligence
To unlock Apple Intelligence, you’ll need an eligible device running the latest versions: iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, or macOS 15.1. On the iPhone side, this includes the iPhone 16 lineup and last year’s iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.
Steps to Activate Apple Intelligence
- Ensure your device is updated to the latest software.
- Open the Settings app and join the Apple Intelligence waitlist.
- Once approved (usually within a few hours), you’ll receive a notification to activate the feature.
With that done, you’ll gain access to Apple Intelligence features tailored to make your devices smarter and more intuitive than ever.
What’s New in iOS 18.2 and Beyond?
Starting this December, iOS 18.2 and its sibling updates will bring exciting new tools to Apple devices. Here’s what’s on the horizon—and what you can already test in the developer beta.
1. Genmoji: AI-Powered Custom Emojis
Want emojis that truly represent your personality? With Genmoji, you can create custom emojis from photos of friends, family, or even yourself. Just describe what you want, and let Apple Intelligence generate a unique emoji that captures your imagination.
2. Image Playground: Fun at Your Fingertips
Turn your creative ideas into reality with Image Playground. This tool allows you to transform photos into whimsical illustrations or cartoon versions of yourself. You can also create entirely new images by describing them. Whether it’s for a laugh or a personal project, the possibilities are endless.
3. ChatGPT Integration: Siri Just Got Smarter
Apple has teamed up with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into Siri and its new Writing Tools. Siri will now be capable of deeper, context-aware assistance. For instance, if you ask Siri about a specific document or need help drafting an email, ChatGPT will step in. Apple has emphasized its commitment to privacy, ensuring users maintain control over when and how their information is used.
4. Priority Notifications: What Matters Most, Front and Center
Priority Notifications are here to organize your day. Your most critical alerts—like dinner reservations or meeting reminders—will now appear at the top of your notifications feed. Say goodbye to sifting through endless notifications!
5. Visual Intelligence (iPhone 16 Series Only)
For owners of the latest iPhone 16 models, a new Camera Control button brings Visual Intelligence to life. This feature identifies objects and places through the camera in real time. Whether it’s translating a foreign sign, learning about a restaurant, or exploring landmarks, just point your camera and let Apple Intelligence provide instant information.
Coming in 2025: Siri On-Screen Awareness
In 2025, Siri will get even more robust with on-screen awareness. Imagine receiving a text with a friend’s new email address or birthday—Siri will let you instantly save this information to your contacts. This is just one example of how Apple plans to transform its AI into a true personal assistant.
Features You Can Use Today
While the December update brings several new features, Apple Intelligence already offers a robust set of tools you can start using right now:
1. Clean Up Tool in Photos App
The Photos app has a new Clean Up Tool for iOS 18 users. With just a tap, remove background objects from your pictures—strangers in family photos, clutter in the background, or anything else that disrupts your perfect shot.
Plus, you can find specific photos by describing them. For example, type “blue house with a red door,” and Apple will instantly locate matching images.
2. Writing Tools: A Smarter Way to Write
Writing Tools are now integrated into apps across Apple devices. This feature can:
- Proofread your text.
- Suggest alternative versions.
- Summarize lengthy content, like lectures or articles.
Whether you’re drafting an email or working on a cover letter, Writing Tools make communication a breeze.
3. Siri’s AI Makeover
Siri has undergone an AI makeover, offering natural and dynamic conversations. You can switch seamlessly between voice commands and typed input, and Siri’s language understanding has become richer, making it easier to follow multi-threaded conversations.
The updated interface now features a glowing edge on your screen when Siri is active, adding a sleek touch to its functionality.
Device Compatibility
Not all Apple devices are ready for Apple Intelligence. Here’s the list of eligible models:
iPhone:
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
iPad:
- iPad Pro (M1 and later)
- iPad Air (M1 and later)
- iPad Mini (A17 Pro)
Mac:
- MacBook Air (M1 and later)
- MacBook Pro (M1 and later)
- iMac (M1 and later)
- Mac Mini (M1 and later)
- Mac Studio (M1 Max and later)
- Mac Pro (M2 Ultra)
Language and Regional Support
Currently, Apple Intelligence supports US English in most regions. Starting in December, English support will expand to Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK.
For European Union users, Apple Intelligence is already available on macOS devices, with iPhone and iPad support launching in April. By 2025, Apple aims to support a wider range of languages, including Chinese, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, and more.
What Is Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence is Apple’s unique take on generative AI, designed to enhance writing, communication, and creative tasks. Unlike other AI tools, Apple ensures your data stays private. Your information isn’t shared with anyone—not even Apple employees.
With Apple Intelligence, the future of smart devices has arrived. From personalized emojis to advanced camera tools, Apple is redefining how technology integrates into our daily lives.
Get ready to experience the next generation of Apple technology—starting now!
