Apple has officially released iOS 18.1 following three months of beta testing. This global update includes support for Apple Intelligence, new tools for working with text, and significant improvements to the Photos app. The update is now available for download.
Key Features of Apple Intelligence
A major innovation in iOS 18.1 is the integration of Apple Intelligence AI tools. These tools simplify working with text, photos, and notifications through features like Writing Tools, Reduce Interruptions, and enhancements in the Photos app.
The iOS 18.1 update is available for all iPhone models that support iOS 18. However, the AI-powered Apple Intelligence functions are exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16. To install the update, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. The build number for this release is 22B83.
Writing Tools
iOS 18.1 introduces versatile writing tools that make text editing and optimization simple across apps. Users can issue commands such as Rewrite, Proofread, Make Friendly, Make Professional, and Shorten. These options are accessible by selecting text and choosing from a context menu. A new button in the Notes app provides quick access to these tools, streamlining workflows for frequent note-takers.
Reduce Interruptions
The Reduce Interruptions feature, powered by Apple Intelligence, helps manage notifications by prioritizing important ones. Alerts related to meetings or schedule changes are shown immediately, while less critical notifications are postponed. Users can customize which apps and contacts are allowed to display notifications based on priority preferences.
Photos and Media Improvements
The Photos app sees major upgrades with iOS 18.1. A new Clear feature allows users to remove unwanted objects or people from photos with just one tap. Apple Intelligence can also detect and suggest elements to delete. Additionally, users can create personalized story films from photos and videos based on a given topic. The improved search functionality makes it easier to find specific moments in videos and clips.
Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, also gains enhancements. Now, when activated, Siri displays a glowing ring around the screen’s edges. Users can switch between voice and text inputs by double-tapping the Home indicator. Siri now better understands pauses in conversation and can manage complex requests. Advanced features like ChatGPT integration are scheduled for iOS 18.2, and we’ll keep you updated on these developments.
App Enhancements and Summarization Features
The Mail app now includes a Priority Messages section to highlight important emails. A new Summarize button within messages provides quick overviews, and Smart Reply offers pre-written response suggestions, helping users avoid missing questions.
Apple Intelligence also introduces Notification Summarization, adds NIXSolutions. This feature aggregates notifications from multiple apps, providing a quick summary without needing to open each one. Users can select which apps to enable this feature for during setup.
The Audio Summarization feature, available in the Notes app, generates summaries of recorded calls or audio notes. This functionality extends to the Phone app, offering concise recaps of conversations.
Additional Features in iOS 18.1
Beyond AI tools, iOS 18.1 brings several other improvements:
- Front Camera Control: Switch to the front camera easily on the iPhone 16.
- Control Center Updates: New toggles and reset options enhance customization.
- NFC Support: Developers now have access to NFC features for third-party apps.
- Call Recording: Native call recording and transcription features are introduced.
- TikTok and Apple Music Integration: Seamless content sharing between the two platforms.
iOS 18.1 delivers a robust set of new features across multiple apps and services, enhancing both functionality and user experience. Stay tuned as more capabilities roll out in future updates—we’ll keep you updated on upcoming releases like iOS 18.2.