por Apple has launched iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1, marking the first major updates since iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 were initially rolled out in September. These 18.1 versions arrive approximately six weeks after the original releases, bringing new features and enhancements.
The primary highlight in iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 is the introduction of Apple Intelligence, which debuts on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, all iPhone 16 models, and any iPad with an M-series or A17 Pro chip. Apple Intelligence is currently available in beta, with a limited waitlist. Users interested in testing Apple Intelligence can enable it by navigating to the Settings app, selecting Apple Intelligence & Siri, and toggling it on.
Notable Apple Intelligence features include
Writing Tools: These tools enable users to proofread, rewrite, and summarize text across various apps, offering enhancements in clarity and flow.
Siri Updates: Siri now features a fresh interface with a glowing edge animation, a new Type to Siri function for silent requests, enhanced product knowledge, and improved contextual memory for conversational continuity.
Smart Summaries and Replies: Notifications, emails, and messages now have automatic summaries and Smart Reply suggestions, while Safari and Notes benefit from summary capabilities for web pages and call transcripts.
Photos Enhancements: The Photos app offers «Clean Up» for removing unwanted objects from photos, and the new Memory Movie feature can generate slideshows based on simple descriptions.
Focus Mode: A new «Reduce Interruptions» Focus Mode ensures only critical notifications reach the user, reducing potential distractions.
Additional new features in iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 are available to those without Apple Intelligence-capable devices as well. Control Center has been enhanced to offer more options for connectivity control, easy access to the Measure app, and the ability to record phone calls with a single tap. Recorded calls include an alert to all parties and are saved with a transcript in the Notes app.
More detailed Apple Intelligence functionalities include
Writing Tools:
- Rewrite: Offers alternative versions of text for optimized phrasing.
- Proofread: Highlights grammar and style improvements.
- Summarize: Creates concise summaries of selected text.
Siri:
- Visual Overhaul: A light animation surrounds the screen edge in response to voice commands.
- Conversational Memory: Siri now recalls context from recent requests, enabling more natural follow-up interactions.
- Voice Enhancements: Siri’s voice is more expressive and realistic.
Photos:
- Enhanced Search: Search photos and videos by describing content.
- Memory Movies: Create a video slideshow by describing the narrative you wish to see.
Notifications:
- Summary Notifications: Glanceable, prioritized summaries of important notifications.
- Smart Reply: Automatically suggested replies in Mail and Messages.
- Priority Mail: Displays emails requiring immediate attention at the inbox top.
- Call Transcripts: Summaries of call transcripts in the Notes app.
Phone:
- Call Recording and Transcription: Record live calls, with automated transcription and announcement.
Camera and AirPods Updates:
- New Spatial Camera mode on iPhone 15 Pro models, featuring spatial photo and video capture.
- AirPods now offer scientifically validated hearing tests, personalized hearing aid settings, and a Hearing Protection feature.
Additional improvements and bug fixes in this update include:
- Expanded connectivity options in Control Center.
- RCS Business Messaging support (pending carrier compatibility).
- Enhanced natural language search in the App Store.
- Game Center friend invites can now be sent directly from Contacts.
- Various fixes for Podcasts, Photos, and digital car key functionality.
