Apple has launched the initial public betas of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, providing non-developers with an early opportunity to experience the software before its official release in October. Those who have enrolled in Apple’s beta testing program can now access these updates through the Settings app.
Apple Intelligence Takes Center Stage
These updates mark the debut of Apple Intelligence features. While not all AI capabilities are included yet, the betas introduce Writing Tools, Siri enhancements, summaries, and smart replies. It’s important to note that Apple Intelligence features require an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, or an M-series Mac or iPad.
Writing Tools: Empowering Your Text
Writing Tools are accessible whenever text can be selected and edited. They offer a range of functions including spell checking, grammar correction, rewriting with a different tone, and summarizing text.
Siri: A Fresh New Look and Feel
Siri has undergone a transformation with a redesigned interface featuring a subtle glow. The addition of Type to Siri means you can interact with Siri without speaking. Siri can also understand you even if you stumble over your words and maintain context between requests.
More Intelligence Across the System
Safari now offers article summaries, and a new Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode intelligently highlights only crucial notifications. Smart replies are available in Messages and Mail, and the Mail app prioritizes time-sensitive messages by placing them at the top of your inbox.
Photos and Beyond
The Photos app introduces Memory Movie, a feature for creating slideshows based on text descriptions. There’s also a Clean Up tool for removing unwanted objects from your photos. All iOS 18.1 users can now record and transcribe phone calls, with recordings saved in the Notes app. However, summarizing calls from those transcriptions remains an Apple Intelligence feature. Additionally, today’s update brings spatial photo capabilities to the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.
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