Apple has released the developer beta of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1, introducing the first Apple Intelligence features. These innovations mark a significant step in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into Apple products. Below you will learn all about the new features, how to use them and the benefits they offer you.
The current beta versions of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1 are currently only available to developers. Apple is working hard to fix bugs and optimize the new features before releasing them to more users in the fall. The features presented are just the beginning, and Apple will introduce more improvements and features throughout the year (via MacRumors). Note: There are restrictions on availability in the EU due to regulatory challenges. When EU citizens will be able to enjoy the new features remains to be seen. Everything related to Apple Intelligence is currently limited to the US in English only. The first iOS 18.1 and macOS 15.1 betas are only available for iPhones, iPads and Macs compatible with Apple Intelligence. These include:
- Macs with M1 chip or higher
- iPads with M1 chip or higher
- iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
writing tools
The new writing tools in Apple Intelligence offer you comprehensive support when writing texts. You can have your text checked for spelling and grammatical errors, optimize word choice and sentence structure, and adjust the tone of your text. Options such as "Friendly," "Professional," and "Concise" are available. You can also create paragraphs, highlight key points, generate lists or tables, and write summaries.
Siri
Siri has received new visual feedback: A glow around the edges of the display indicates when Siri is activated, which is especially useful for iPhone, iPad and CarPlay. On the Mac, the Siri window can be placed anywhere. Siri can now maintain context between requests, allowing for smoother interaction. The "Type to Siri" feature allows you to type requests instead of speaking them, which is activated on the Mac by pressing the Command key twice.
Apple Mail has a new Summary button that summarizes incoming emails. Time-sensitive messages are prioritized and appear at the top of the inbox. Smart Reply offers quick, contextual responses to emails, and multiple notifications are summarized on the lock screen to give you a quick overview.
Messages
The Messages app analyzes incoming text messages and offers intelligent response options. Notifications for multiple messages are grouped together, which increases clarity.
Photos
The new Memories feature lets you create movies based on simple descriptions, such as "My cat in 2024." The feature automatically selects relevant photos and music, but can also be customized to your liking. Natural voice search in Photos helps you find specific moments or people.
transcription
In the Notes app and other applications, you can record audio that is automatically transcribed and summarized. This is especially useful for lectures or important meetings.
focus modes
Reduce interruptions focus mode filters out unimportant notifications and shows only the important ones. Intelligent Breakthrough and Silencing let you allow important notifications while muting others.
phone
A new feature in iOS 18.1 is the ability to make phone calls to recordThese recordings are saved in the Notes app and can be transcribed and summarized.
Safari
When you read an article in Reading Mode, Apple Intelligence can summarize the article for you, making it easier to absorb information.
Apple Intelligence report
You can export and review your Apple Intelligence data in the Privacy & Security section of the Settings app. Face ID is required to access and export this data.
AI integration made easy: iOS 18.1 in focus
The iOS 18.1 Developer Beta offers a variety of new features and improvements that will significantly improve your user experience. Apple Intelligence shows how AI can be integrated into everyday applications to make your life easier. Stay tuned for the full release and the further developments that Apple Intelligence will offer in the future. (Image: Apple)
- Apple Intelligence: Soon available for EU countries?
- What Apple Intelligence features are coming next?
