Key Points
- Apple’s AI features will launch a few weeks after the initial iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 releases, which are expected in September.
- Apple Intelligence will be available for developers to test early via iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 betas.
- Apple’s AI features will generate text, images, and other content, accessible on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and devices with the M1 chip or later.
- The delay follows Apple’s need to comply with EU tech rules, which ensure interoperability with rival products and services.
According to a report, Apple’s highly anticipated artificial intelligence (AI) features will miss the initial launch of the upcoming iPhone and iPad software overhauls. The tech giant plans to begin rolling out Apple Intelligence to customers as part of software updates by October, with the AI features arriving a few weeks after the initial iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 releases planned for September.
Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report indicates that Apple is preparing to make Apple Intelligence available to software developers for early testing via iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 betas as soon as this week. These AI enhancements, expected to conjure text, images, and other content on command, are poised to be a significant addition to Apple’s ecosystem. In response to queries outside regular business hours, Apple did not immediately comment.
This delay comes despite Apple’s strong emphasis on AI during its June announcements, showcasing new features and software enhancements to boost its iPhone and other device sales. The AI capabilities, branded as Apple Intelligence, will be available on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and devices equipped with Apple’s M1 chip and later versions. A new feature, iPhone Mirroring on MacOS Sequoia, will enable users to view and interact with their iPhone screens on Mac computers.
The postponed AI feature launch follows Apple’s recent decision to delay the rollout of three new AI functionalities. This delay was influenced by the need to comply with landmark European Union tech regulations, which require Apple to ensure that rival products and services can operate seamlessly with its devices.
Despite the delays, Apple remains committed to integrating AI more deeply into its products. The forthcoming Apple Intelligence aims to enhance user experience by leveraging advanced AI to generate text and images on demand, significantly enriching the utility of Apple devices.
Apple’s AI strategy highlights its focus on maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. By making these AI tools available to developers early on, Apple hopes to refine the features and ensure a smooth rollout to the broader customer base later in the year.
