5 Apple Intelligence features to enhance your iPhone experience

Apple introduced an array of artificial intelligence features for its iPhone 15 Pro and later models with the rollout of the iOS 18.1 update on October 28, Monday. These advanced tools include writing assistance, message summaries, email suggestions, and more, reflecting Apple's commitment to enhancing user experience through technology. The announcement of these AI capabilities, initially made during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, has generated considerable excitement among eligible iPhone users. With the iOS 18.1 update now available, users can finally explore these new functionalities. However, access is currently limited to those who own an iPhone 15 Pro or newer, requiring an update and enrollment in a waitlist to activate the features. Here’s an overview of the key AI tools included in this significant software update, detailing their functionalities and applications.

Apple Intelligence iOS 18.1 Update: Key AI features


Writing Tools

One of the standout features of Apple's AI offerings is the Writing Tools, designed to enhance productivity across various applications, including Mail, Notes, and Messages. These tools assist users in composing emails, crafting messages, and generating responses. Users can leverage these tools to:

• Proofread selected passages.
• Summarise text in bullet points.
• Adjust the tone of their writing to sound more professional or casual.

This feature aims to streamline the writing process, making it easier for users to communicate effectively.


Message Summaries

The Message Summaries feature in the Messages app allows users to receive concise overviews of multiple text messages. By enabling this functionality, iPhone users can quickly grasp the essence of conversations without having to read through lengthy exchanges. For instance, a detailed text about a football game could be summarised as simply "Enjoyed Chiefs game." This feature is particularly useful for those who manage high volumes of messages and wish to stay updated without getting overwhelmed.

Photos App Cleanup Tool

The Clean Up tool in the Photos app introduces an AI-driven method for enhancing images. Users can find this feature alongside traditional photo-editing options such as cropping. The Clean Up tool identifies and highlights unwanted elements within a photo's background, allowing users to erase distractions effortlessly. Although the results may appear satisfactory from a distance, closer examination may reveal minor visual inconsistencies, highlighting the tool's evolving capabilities.

Email Summarisation and Response Suggestions

Within the Mail app, Apple has implemented features that allow users to receive summarised versions of email threads or lengthy messages. For example, an invitation to a restaurant anniversary party can be distilled to essential details, covering the who, what, when, and where. Additionally, the AI suggests Smart Replies, enabling users to respond promptly without needing to compose a detailed message. An example response could read, "I'll be there to celebrate Jasmine's 4th anniversary. Looking forward to the fun activities and delicious food."

Reduce Interruptions Mode

The Reduce Interruptions mode is designed to help users manage notifications more effectively. Similar to existing Focus modes, this feature allows users to customise their notification settings, selecting specific people or apps from whom they still wish to receive alerts. While in this mode, users may not be notified of standard text messages, but urgent messages—potentially marked with specific keywords—will still trigger alerts. Apple has indicated that the effectiveness of this mode may vary based on user settings.

Apple Intelligence: How to get started

To use the new AI features, eligible iPhone users must follow these steps:

• Update to iOS 18.1: Ensure that your device is running the latest software version.
• Sign up for the waitlist: Navigate to the Settings app and sign up for the Apple Intelligence waitlist.
• Await approval: Once your request is approved, you will gain access to the AI tools and features.

Apple has also provided additional resources for users who prefer in-person assistance. Store employees have been trained to demonstrate these features, helping customers understand how to maximise their utility. Additionally, a Tips widget is available on eligible iPhones, offering guidance on how to use the new software.

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