Apple rolls out major OS update with Apple Intelligence features to iPhones, iPads, Macs

The first batch of Apple Intelligence features include writing tools, proofreading, and the ability to compose smart replies. It will also allow users to transcribe and summarize voice recordings in the Notes app.

Apple on Monday(October 28) rolled new software updates with the first batch of Apple Intelligence features to all eligible iPhones, iPads and Macs. 

It should be noted that the latest updates— iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS 15.1 — bring a handful of Apple Intelligence features. Rest of them will be rolled in subsequent updates in the coming months starting with December and the roll-out process is expected to complete in early 2025. 

This update will include writing tools, proofreading, and the ability to compose smart replies. It will also allow users to transcribe and summarize voice recordings in the Notes app.

Photos app update with Apple Intelligence

In the Photos App, Apple will bring a Clean-up tool, which can remove unwanted objects from the frame without affecting the subject.

Also, with the Apple Intelligence feature, users can tell iPhones to create a short movie with images and videos stored on the Photos app. He/she has to just describe what the content should be. For instance, if you own a pet dog, you can type a description-- "My pet Tommy (pet's name) day out in Cubbon Park"- It will stitch together a curated picture and videos captured at that particular location with a good music score in the background. It can help create wonderful short video memories of the loved ones.

More Customised Focus feature

It also brings Priority Messages, a new section at the top of the inbox in Mail, shows the most urgent emails. Also, users can see summaries without needing to open a message, and for long threads, they can tap or click Summarise to view important details.

All-new Siri

With latest update, Siri gets refreshing make-over not just in terms of visual UI, but also with smart and more accurate response with natural human-like voice.

When you summon Siri, it glows light that wraps around the edge of the screen when active on iPhone, iPad, or CarPlay.

On Mac, users will get the option to move Siri anywhere on their desktop to access it easily as they work.

Add to that, users can type text to Siri at any time on iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and can switch fluidly between text and voice.

Generative AI language model helps Siri to respond seamlessly to any complex queries.

Further, Siri can answer thousands of questions about the features and settings of Apple products. It will be personal tutor to learn everything about your device. For instance, he/she can ask Siri to help them how to take screen recording or how to share Wi-Fi password to guests at home.

Currently, Apple Intelligence-based Siri is available in US (English).

Apple will beadding support for more languages in the coming months.

In December, Apple Intelligence will be available for localised English in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK.

In April, a software update will deliver expanded language support, with more coming throughout the year. Chinese, English (India), English (Singapore), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Vietnamese, and other languages will be supported.

Here's how to install the iOS/iPadOS 18.1 on iPhones and iPads:

Via OTA (Over-The-Air)

Prerequisite: Users' who want to install the update directly onto the device through OTA, make sure there is enough storage space and the device should have more than 50% battery life, before initiating the download of the new iOS/iPadOS update.

Step 1: Settings >> General >> Software update

Via manual installation through Apple iTunes

Prerequisite: Make sure to back up your iPhone/iPad with either iCloud or via iTunes before initiating the download procedure. Also, your PC must have the latest version of the iTunes app. If not, Go to About and then Check for Updates or visit iTunes.com.

Step 1: Launch iTunes on your Mac or PC.

Step 2: Insert your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch if it isn't already.

Step 3: Tap on the iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in the top left navigation.

Step 4: Tap on the Check for Update button in the first section that contains information about your device and alternately you can click Restore instead if you'd like to do a clean wipe with updated software.

Step 5: An update should be recognized, click on Download and Update in the popup menu and agree to the terms or conditions.

Step 6: Unlock your device with your passcode if prompted to continue with the upgrade.

Here's how to install macOS 15.1 on to your Mac device:

Step 1: From the Apple menu in the corner of your screen, choose System Settings. Click General in the sidebar, then click Software Update on the right.

Users can also use Spotlight  in the menu bar to search for 'Software Update,' then open it from the search results. 

If your System is running on two-three year older versions, Go to Apple menu (Apple logo) >> System Preferences and then click Software Update.

List of Apple devices eligible to get Apple Intelligence feature with software update

Apple iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, iPad Air (with M1 and newer versions), iPad Pro (with M1 and newer versions), MacBook Air (with M1 and newer versions), MacBook Pro (M1 and later), iMac (M1 and later), Mac mini (M1 and later), Mac Studio (M1 and later), and iMac (M2 Ultra).

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