iOS 18.1: New Features, Apple Intelligence, and User Feedback

iOS 18.1, set to be released next week, promises a slew of new features and enhancements, particularly with the introduction of Apple Intelligence. This update will bring AI-backed tools to compatible iPhones, including those with the A17 Pro and A18+ chipsets.

One of the key aspects of iOS 18.1 is the integration of Apple Intelligence, which includes AI-driven writing and productivity tools. Users can expect new proofreading and generative rewriting tools for text, email and webpage summarization, smart replies in Mail and Messages, and notification summaries. Additionally, the update will allow users to remove unwanted elements from photos, record phone calls, and create ‘Memory movies’ from their photo reels.

Despite the anticipation around these features, some users have expressed frustration with the current state of Siri in iOS 18.1. Reports from the iOS community indicate that Siri’s performance has not improved as expected, with issues such as failing to provide the current time in a specific location and struggling with context changes in conversations. Users have noted that while Siri is supposed to follow context better and understand spoken requests more accurately, it often falls short of these expectations.

The full rollout of Apple Intelligence features, including significant updates to Siri such as personal context, on-screen awareness, and in-app actions, is not expected until later versions, potentially in iOS 18.3 or 18.4, which could be released as early as March 2025. For now, users can sign up for the Apple Beta Software Program to access the iOS 18.1 public beta and join the waitlist for the new Apple Intelligence features.

It’s also worth noting that the update will include various security updates and other improvements, although specific details on these are not yet fully disclosed. As with any beta release, users are advised to be cautious, as beta testing can sometimes introduce unforeseen issues with their devices).