Apple unveiled the first version of Apple Intelligence, its new suite of AI features aimed at enhancing Siri, automating email and image creation, and managing notifications. This software, included in the developer beta of iOS 18.1, is also available for iPad and Mac, though it is currently restricted to developer testing.

To access Apple Intelligence, users must sign up for a waitlist through Apple’s settings app after updating their devices, as the service involves more complex interactions with Apple’s servers. The public release is scheduled for later this year, but the 18.1 version indicates it will not be launched alongside the anticipated new iPhone models, which are expected to run iOS 18 this fall.

Apple Intelligence marks a significant advancement for Apple, with hopes that its integration into the operating system will drive major upgrades in the coming years. Initially, it will be available only for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, with expectations that improvements in AI features could sustain the iPhone’s strong performance through the 2025 cycle, according to Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan.

The initial preview includes:
- A revamped Siri interface with a glowing phone edge
- Enhanced Siri capabilities, such as understanding commands even if the user stumbles and answering troubleshooting queries about Apple products
- Improved photo search and movie creation tools
- AI-generated summaries for emails, messages, and voicemails
- Writing Tools for text generation

Future updates will introduce:
- Image and emoji generation
- Automated photo cleanup
- Additional Siri enhancements, including personalized responses and actions within apps
- Integration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT