Exploring Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.1: What’s New and What’s Missing

Mobile news For longer texts, the AI can generate summaries, bullet points, or tables, streamlining information processing. The keyboard will suggest replies in new conversations, summarizing unread texts and notifications similarly to email. A new “Summarize” option in Safari’s Reader view generates a one-paragraph summary of the webpage content. Calls can be recorded directly in the Phone app, with recordings saved as voice notes in the Notes app, including AI-generated transcripts. This mode uses on-device intelligence to filter notifications and calls, allowing through only those deemed important, while still silencing others. Improved search capabilities let you find photos and moments using natural language. You can also create and edit Memories with natural language descriptions. Image credit: Shutterstock

Exploring Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.1: What’s New and What’s Missing​

The iOS 18.1 beta introduces us to Apple Intelligence, a significant leap in Apple's AI capabilities. While it’s packed with exciting features, it’s also important to note its limitations and what’s yet to come.

Table of Contents

Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.1: Features and Limitations

Current Features in iOS 18.1

With the release of iOS 18.1, Apple has taken a significant step forward in AI technology. However, as with any new technology, it's essential to understand both its capabilities and its limitations. Here’s a detailed look at what Apple Intelligence can and can’t do in iOS 18.1.

Apple’s new AI features in iOS 18.1 promise to enhance productivity and user experience. According to recent surveys, 70% of iOS users are excited about the potential of AI integrations in their daily tasks.

As mobile and tech experts at OpenForge and long-time iOS users, we’ve explored these new features extensively. Here’s what we’ve found.

Enhanced Writing Tools

Proofreading and Rewriting

Apple Intelligence introduces a robust writing tools menu that can be accessed anywhere you can copy/paste text. This feature allows users to proofread text, suggesting grammar and punctuation changes or rewriting it for a different tone, such as friendly, professional, or concise.

Summarization and lists

Improved Siri & Smart Mail Features

Visual and Contextual Enhancements

Siri now has a colorful edge glow that reacts to your voice and supports typing commands. While Siri's contextual understanding has improved, it still lacks the deep personal interaction and app integration announced at WWDC, which are slated for future updates.

Summarization

Emails and threads feature a “Summarize” button for quick overviews. Priority emails can be highlighted at the top of your inbox, with brief summaries also appearing in notifications.

Smart Replies in Messages

Reply Suggestions

Safari Summarization

Reader View

Call Recording

Integrated Recording and Transcription

Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode

Smart Notification Management

Photos App Enhancements

Natural Language Search

Upcoming Features - iOS 18.2 or 18.3 Updates

Image Generation Tools and ChatGPT Integration

• Look forward to tools for cleaning up background objects, experimenting with AI-generated images, and creating Memoji-inspired images.
• Enhanced text generation and Siri’s ability to delegate queries to ChatGPT for more complex interactions.

Is your app ready for iOS 18.1?

The iOS 18.1 beta offers a sneak peek into Apple’s ambitious AI plans, with powerful features aimed at enhancing productivity and personal assistance. While some advanced capabilities are on the horizon, the current release already shows promising improvements.

Ready to experience the future of AI on your iPhone? Update to iOS 18.1 and start exploring these amazing new features today!

If you have an AI integration you wish to explore, schedule a free consultation at OpenForge. We're here to help you leverage these innovative tools to enhance your mobile applications.