Apple has rolled out iOS 18.1 beta to developers, introducing its new generative AI feature, Apple Intelligence, to iPhone 15 Pro Max users and newer iPads and Macs. The update is set to bring a host of advanced AI functionalities, though users should be aware that this is a beta release and may have some stability issues.
How to Install Apple Intelligence
To install the iOS 18.1 beta, navigate to Settings, select General, and then Software Update. Choose the beta ring and select the appropriate iOS 18.1 beta, iPadOS 18.1 beta, or macOS 15.1 beta. Make sure your device is set to US English and the region is set to the US. After installation, you’ll find Apple Intelligence under a dedicated tab in Settings. You will need to join a waitlist to access the feature and enable it.
Functionality and Performance
While Apple Intelligence promises innovative features, it’s crucial to note that this is a pre-release version, which means it may cause issues such as reduced battery life, instability, and lag. It is advisable to install this update on a secondary device to avoid any potential data loss on your primary device.
The new feature introduces several capabilities, including AI-generated summaries of emails, messages, and voicemails, as well as real-time transcription for voice calls and voice memos. Siri has been redesigned to better understand user queries, even when they are not perfectly articulated, and offers enhanced troubleshooting assistance similar to what you’d expect from an Apple Store Genius.
Evaluation
In practice, Apple Intelligence shows promise but also reveals some limitations. The AI-driven writing tools are useful, with real-time proofreading and text generation capabilities that improve productivity. However, Apple’s entry into this space comes after competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy AI and Microsoft SwiftKey have already established similar features. The interface for accessing these writing tools could be more intuitive, as the current method involves long-pressing and swiping, which may not be as user-friendly as dedicated buttons or menus.
Siri’s new functionalities, including understanding a wider range of dialects and improved context recognition, are impressive but not revolutionary. The feature’s full potential, which includes advanced semantic learning and integration with personal data, is still forthcoming.
The AI-generated summaries and photo search functions, while promising, require further refinement. Early experiences suggest that the transcription feature for calls and voice memos needs improvement in accuracy. The feature’s effectiveness is expected to improve as Apple continues development before the official release of iOS 18.1 in October.
Conclusion
Overall, Apple Intelligence represents a significant step forward in Apple’s AI capabilities but is not yet groundbreaking. While it enhances the iPhone’s functionality and could complement existing tools like Elphas and Grammarly, its current state suggests there is room for improvement. Once localized for other languages and refined, Apple Intelligence has the potential to become a valuable tool in Apple’s ecosystem.
I am Aparna Sahu
Investment Specialist and Financial Writer
With 2 years of experience in the financial sector, Aparna brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to Investor Welcome. As an accomplished author and investment specialist, Aparna has a passion for demystifying complex financial concepts and empowering investors with actionable strategies. She has been featured in relevant publications, if any, and is dedicated to providing clear, evidence-based analysis that helps clients make informed investment decisions. Aparna Sahu holds a relevant degree or certification and is committed to staying ahead of market trends to deliver the most up-to-date advice.
