After years of speculation and several delays, Apple has finally lifted the curtain on its much-anticipated AI developments at this year’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. The trend continued this week at the ‘Glowtime’ product launch event, where Apple spotlighted how its new “Apple Intelligence” features could revolutionize iPhone usage. However, this revolution comes with a caveat—only the latest iPhone models will support the full suite of these features.
Slated for release on September 16, iOS 18 is set to be a landmark update, particularly if you want to experience Apple’s cutting-edge AI capabilities. If you own an older iPhone model, now may be the time to consider an upgrade, or alternatively, you can get a taste of these features by enrolling in the iOS 18 developer beta.
AI-Powered Enhancements in iOS 18
Initially, iOS 18 will likely launch without the full spectrum of Apple Intelligence capabilities, but future updates are expected to bring a suite of new AI-driven features, including:
- An enhanced Siri that promises to be more responsive and intuitive.
- Summarization tools for emails, Keynotes, third-party apps, and more.
- Advanced writing aids for rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing text.
- Apple Image Playground and AI-generated avatars termed “Genmoji.”
- Priority notification settings and AI-generated photo memory videos.
- Video content search functionality and improved photo editing capabilities.
- The innovative Image Wand tool integrated into the Notes app.
In addition to these AI enhancements, iOS 18 will also introduce an improved Control Center, advanced privacy options like app locking or hiding, scheduled messaging, satellite-based messaging, and the ability to exchange Apple Cash through a simple tap between phones.
Compatible iPhone Models for iOS 18 AI Features
To fully leverage these new AI features, you’ll need an iPhone 15 Pro or any of the newer models expected to be launched this year. While some may view this as a strategy to drive sales, Apple justifies this requirement by citing the robust processing power needed for on-device AI tasks.
On-device processing offers significant advantages, including enhanced security and lower latency. Apple maintains that older iPhone models lack the processing capacity to handle such tasks effectively. The AI features in iOS 18 rely on the A17 Pro SoC, exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Even models like the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, which feature the A16 Bionic chip, won’t support these advanced AI capabilities. The upcoming iPhone 16 lineup, featuring A18 and A18 Pro chips, will be the best equipped to handle the full range of Apple Intelligence features.
Flexibility for Mac and iPad Users
The scenario is more forgiving for Mac and iPad users. To access Apple Intelligence features on these devices, you’ll need at least an M1 chip. Given that Apple is currently producing M4-chip iPads and M3-chip Macs, users with slightly older devices should still be able to enjoy many AI enhancements.
If you’re not ready to upgrade to the iPhone 15 Pro or above, don’t fret. Some AI features that run on cloud processing will still be accessible on older models. However, to experience the full breadth of Apple’s AI innovations, a new iPhone purchase might be in your future.
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, Apple’s venture into AI signifies a pivotal moment. Whether you’re a long-time Apple aficionado or a tech enthusiast, the launch of iOS 18 promises a more intelligent, secure, and user-friendly device experience.