Apple unveils iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1: Key features of Apple Intelligence and enhanced tools for all devices

Apple has launched iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1, marking the first big updates since the release of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 in September. These updates, available on eligible iPhones and iPads, bring the highly anticipated “Apple Intelligence” features, along with several other enhancements.

To get iOS 18.1 or iPadOS 18.1, users can simply go to Settings > General > Software Update.

Apple Intelligence Features in iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1

The standout feature of this update is Apple Intelligence, which introduces advanced AI tools to make your iPhone and iPad even more powerful. However, Apple Intelligence is currently in beta and only available on newer devices like the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 models, as well as iPads equipped with M-series or A17 Pro chips. You can opt into Apple Intelligence by heading to Settings > Apple Intelligence and Siri and turning it on.

Here’s what Apple Intelligence can do:

1. Writing Tools: These tools let you proofread, rewrite, or summarize text as you type, improving writing with suggestions for better flow, grammar fixes, and language refinements.
2. Siri Improvements:
   • Redesigned Interface: Siri now appears with a dynamic glow around the screen, responding visually as you speak.
   • Type to Siri: If speaking isn’t an option, you can double-tap the screen to type your request to Siri.
   • Enhanced Language and Contextual Understanding: Siri now understands if you pause or change direction mid-sentence and keeps context over multiple requests.
   • Apple Product Knowledge: Siri can answer more in-depth questions about Apple products and settings.
   • Voice Enhancements: Siri’s voice now sounds clearer and more expressive.
3. Smart Summaries and Replies:
   • In Mail and Messages, you’ll find summarize and smart reply features that help you respond quickly.
   • In Safari, you can get webpage summaries, and in Notes, there are summaries of transcripts, including from phone calls.
4. Photos Updates:
   • Clean Up: This feature lets you remove unwanted objects from your photos.
   • Memory Movies: Easily create custom slideshows by describing the story you want to see.
5. Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode: This new mode limits notifications to only the most important alerts, helping you stay focused.

More iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 Updates

Beyond Apple Intelligence, iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 include other notable upgrades, even for those without Apple Intelligence-supported devices:

• Control Center: Now lets you customize connectivity options, easily access the Measure app, and record calls. Tap the recording button during a call to save it to the Notes app, where a transcript is also available.
• Expanded NFC Access: Third-party apps can now use NFC capabilities, enabling options like contactless payments outside of Apple Pay.

Additional Enhancements

Here are some other helpful changes in this update:

• Phone: Users can now record and transcribe calls directly in the Notes app. All participants are notified when recording starts.
• Camera Enhancements:
  • New controls allow you to quickly switch to the TrueDepth front camera.
  • Spatial photo and video capture modes are available on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
• AirPods Pro (2nd Gen):
  • Hearing Test: Run hearing tests from home (for users 18 and older).
  • Hearing Aid: Automatically improves sounds in calls, music, and videos for mild-to-moderate hearing loss.
  • Hearing Protection: Reduces loud environmental noise.
• Notifications and Priority Messages:
  • Summarized notifications give you quick overviews of key alerts.
  • Priority Messages in Mail helps you stay on top of important emails.
• RCS Business Messaging: Businesses can now connect via RCS (requires carrier support).
• App Store Search: More intuitive search lets users find what they need using natural language.
• Game Center Invites: Now you can send Game Center invites from the Contacts app, with notifications shown in Settings.

Bug Fixes

This update also resolves issues like:

• Podcasts: Fixes where unplayed episodes were marked as played.
• 4K Video: Addresses stuttering during video playback.
• Car Keys: Fixes occasional issues with unlocking after device restoration.

Note: Some Apple Intelligence features, including advanced Genmoji and image generation tools, are still on the way. For detailed security information on this update, check Apple’s official support page.