Apple Rolls Out iOS 18.3 Update, Enables AI Features by Default

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Apple on Monday released a major software update for iPhones, iPads, and Macs, enabling its Apple Intelligence suite of artificial intelligence features by default for users with supported devices. The updates, iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS Sequoia 15.3, also address concerns over AI-generated news summaries that previously displayed inaccurate information.

The rollout marks a significant step in Apple’s broader strategy to integrate AI deeply into its ecosystem, distinguishing its products from competitors. Apple Intelligence, which includes features like text rewriting, image generation, and email summarization, is now automatically activated during device setup for users upgrading to iOS 18.3. Previously, users were prompted to opt in manually.

“For users new or upgrading to iOS 18.3, Apple Intelligence will be enabled automatically during iPhone onboarding,” Apple stated in its developer release notes. Users who wish to disable the feature can do so through the Settings app.

The update follows criticism of Apple Intelligence’s notification summarization feature, which was found to distort news headlines. In one instance, the feature incorrectly summarized a BBC Sports notification, falsely stating that Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal had come out as gay. Nadal, who is married to Maria Francisca Perello, is not Brazilian.

In response to these issues, Apple has temporarily disabled AI-generated summaries for news and entertainment apps. Notifications created by Apple Intelligence will now appear in italics to distinguish them from app-generated alerts. “We’re pleased that Apple has listened to our concerns and is pausing the summarization feature for news,” a BBC spokesperson told CNBC.

Apple has also introduced updates to its Visual Intelligence feature, available exclusively on iPhone 16 models. The feature, accessible via the Camera Control, enhances image recognition and processing capabilities.

Despite the controversy, Apple Intelligence remains a cornerstone of the company’s AI ambitions. The suite is still in beta and is currently available only in select English-speaking countries. Apple has emphasized that the gradual rollout allows for thorough testing and ensures sufficient server capacity.

Other changes in iOS 18.3 include fixes for the revamped Calculator app, restoring the ability to perform multiple operations by repeatedly pressing the equals button. The update also addresses various bugs and performance issues.

Looking ahead, Apple is expected to release iOS 18.4, which will introduce further AI enhancements, including a more advanced Siri with personal context and in-app actions.