Apple is about to release the next major iOS update, and initial leaks suggest that iOS 18.1 could be released as early as October 2024. Particularly exciting: this version will introduce the first functions of Apple Intelligence, Apple’s AI initiative, which will be gradually expanded over the coming months. This will make the iPhone even smarter – at least for some users.
The most important things in a nutshell:
- iOS 18.1 brings the first Apple Intelligence functions: AI tools such as text summaries and rephrasing are introduced.
- Availability initially limited: Apple Intelligence is only available on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 and selected iPads.
- EU users will have to wait: In the EU, the update is not expected until 2025, as Apple is still battling with regulatory hurdles.
Apple Intelligence: A first look at the future
When Apple presented Apple Intelligence to the global public in the early summer of 2024, quite a few people were amazed. Apple wants to start rolling out the AI-supported features with iOS 18.1. The beta version has already provided insights into the first functions: for example, the new Siri can summarize and rephrase texts.
However, other announced features such as AI-generated emojis or an integrated image AI are still missing and will probably be added in later versions. What is particularly exciting is that this first version of Apple Intelligence lays an important foundation for future developments in the iPhone ecosystem.
Limitations and memory requirements
However, not all devices will benefit from these new functions immediately. Apple Intelligence will initially only be available for the iPhone 15 Pro (€1179.00 on Amazon), iPhone 16 (from €949.00 on Amazon) and newer iPad and Mac models that have sufficient computing power. In addition, the AI package requires at least 4 GB of flash memory, which could lead to storage space problems for some users, as iOS itself already takes up a large part of the memory.
Delays in Europe
While Apple users in the USA can expect the update from October, Europe will be left out for the time being. Apple still has to deal with the requirements of the EU, in particular the new AI Act, which introduces strict regulations for AI technologies. Apple Intelligence will therefore not be available in the EU until 2025 at the earliest, which is disappointing for many European users.
Conclusion
The leak of the iOS 18.1 release shows that Apple is taking serious steps towards artificial intelligence. However, even if the initial functions are promising, some users will have to be patient until all the announced features are available on their devices. One thing is certain: If you want to start enjoying the new possibilities now, you should consider buying an iPhone 15 Pro or newer device.
