Apple has launched the first public beta of iOS 18.1, which brings a host of AI-powered Apple Intelligence features to compatible iPhones ahead of the iPhone 16 series launch. Available as of September 19, this update includes advanced writing tools, image editing capabilities, and more. However, users must join a waitlist to access these features.
Key Apple Intelligence Features
1. Notification Summary: This feature groups notifications from multiple apps into summaries for quick viewing, making it easier to manage alerts without opening individual apps. Third-party app notifications are also supported.
2. AI Writing Tools: iOS 18.1 introduces AI-driven writing assistants—Proofread, Rewrite, and Summarise. These tools enhance productivity across Notes, Mail, and Messages, offering seamless text editing and restructuring on the go.
3. Image Clean-Up Tool: A new AI-powered image editing tool in the Photos app enables users to remove unwanted objects from their photos, enhancing photo quality effortlessly.
4. Webpage Summarization: Safari’s Reader mode now supports AI-generated webpage summaries, allowing users to get a quick overview of web content.
5. Redesigned Siri: Siri undergoes a major redesign, featuring a new interface and improved natural language processing, providing a more intuitive voice assistant experience.
6. Movie Memory: This feature lets users create custom videos from their photos and videos using AI, based on user input and preferences.
How to Download and Install iOS 18.1 Public Beta
- Visit Apple’s Beta Program to sign up.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Select “Beta Updates” and choose iOS 18.1 Public Beta.
- Agree to the terms and download the update.
How to Join the Waitlist for Apple Intelligence
To access the new Apple Intelligence features:
- Download iOS 18.1 Public Beta.
- Navigate to Settings > Apple Intelligence and Siri.
- Tap “Join Waitlist” and follow the instructions.
Eligible iPhones for Apple Intelligence
- iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max
- iPhone 16 series (including Plus, Pro, and Pro Max)