Apple Intelligence will not be available at iOS 18 launch

According to Bloomberg, Apple's new AI features for the iPhone may not be available with the initial release of iOS 18 or the scheduled introduction of the iPhone 16 in September. Instead, the company is reportedly planning to introduce Apple Intelligence with iOS 18.1 in October as it works to perfect the rollout.

Apple unveiled its first AI features at the Worldwide Developers Conference in June, including better Siri, AI-powered image production, and integration with ChatGPT. These capabilities may not be available with a new iPhone 16 purchased at launch. However, Apple may push out the update later to new smartphones in store using its in-the-box updating system called Presto.

Apple published iOS 18.1 beta for developers on Monday. According to Bloomberg, Apple typically does not share betas for future software updates before the public release of the main version. The early launch could allow developers to test Apple's AI features and identify flaws before they become widely available and spread across other platforms like as the Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV.

Not all of the AI features Apple previewed at WWDC will be accessible in 18.1. Siri's onscreen awareness and ability to perform commands within apps may not be available until spring 2025.