New iOS 18.1 brings first Apple Intelligence features, enhancing Siri and more

Apple has officially launched its much-anticipated Apple Intelligence AI, debuting a suite of features with the rollout of iOS 18.1 in the United States. This release introduces the first wave of AI-powered tools, although several touted capabilities are being held for later updates. Among the first available features are enhancements to Siri, new photo-editing tools, and improved writing and summarization options. While Apple fans may welcome these updates, some of the more advanced AI tools remain in development.

Enhanced Siri and early Apple Intelligence tools

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The latest iOS update brings a smarter, more refined Siri. According to Apple, Siri now has a “natural-sounding voice” and improved conversational abilities, enabling a more seamless user experience. While this version of Siri doesn’t yet function as a full chatbot, Apple says the assistant will better understand stammered or paused commands, making it easier for users to navigate without flawless command phrasing.

Additional AI-powered features included in this release extend to writing and summarization tools, providing streamlined assistance for text-based tasks. Despite these advances, Apple Intelligence is still in its early stages, with more expansive updates expected in the coming months. For now, Apple Intelligence is available on select devices, including the latest iPhone and iPad models equipped with Apple’s latest Pro chips.

More advanced features delayed: Genmoji, ChatGPT integration, and beyond

Some highly anticipated features, such as Genmoji, which will allow users to design custom emojis, and integrated ChatGPT capabilities, are not yet part of iOS 18.1. Experts suggest this phased rollout could leave early adopters feeling underwhelmed. Speaking with CBS Mornings, CNET’s Bridget Carey explained, “This is coming out in stages,” and users expecting a robust chatbot experience will have to wait. She added that Siri’s current enhancements focus more on user-friendliness rather than delivering “wild new answers.”

For now, Apple Intelligence requires both the latest iPhone, iPad, or Mac models with Apple Pro chips (iPhone 15 Pro series, iPhone 16 series, and newer iPads with A17 Pro or M1 chips), and Siri language settings set to U.S. English.

Apple’s new hearing aid functionality expands device capabilities

In addition to Apple Intelligence, iOS 18.1 introduces a groundbreaking feature for Apple’s AirPods Pro—an FDA-approved Hearing Aid Feature (HAF). This tool enables the AirPods Pro to function as over-the-counter hearing aids for users with mild to moderate hearing loss, an issue that affects an estimated 30 million Americans. This new functionality aligns with recent FDA guidelines permitting devices like AirPods Pro to support hearing-impaired users, representing a unique intersection of accessibility and advanced technology in Apple’s offerings.

Improved photo editing and search in Apple Photos

Among the notable AI-powered tools included in iOS 18.1 are updates to Apple’s Photos app. The app now includes a “Clean Up” tool, allowing users to remove unwanted objects or distractions from photos with a single tap, providing a quick way to improve images without additional editing apps. Additionally, a new natural language search feature lets users locate specific photos based on more intuitive search terms, making photo organization more accessible and streamlined.

What’s next for Apple Intelligence?

Apple Intelligence is expected to evolve substantially as more features roll out. As Apple refines this AI-driven suite, future updates will likely integrate more advanced conversational capabilities, creative tools, and personalized AI functionalities. For now, users can explore Siri’s enhanced abilities, improved photo-editing tools, and the new hearing aid support with iOS 18.1, while looking forward to a more comprehensive AI experience in the future.