Apple’s upcoming iOS 18.4 update, launching in April, introduces the innovative Apple Intelligence features, accessible primarily on iPhone 15 and 16 models, along with enhanced benefits for O2 customers. Key updates include a revamped Mail app powered by AI, new writing tools, the Image Playground app for generating images from text, and personalized Genmojis. Visual Intelligence and enhanced Siri functionalities further enrich user experience. Additionally, Apple Intelligence will soon expand to Mac and iPad, marking a significant evolution in device interaction.
Apple Unveils iOS 18.4 Update with Exciting New Features
Apple has officially announced the release of the iOS 18.4 update, scheduled for April. The timing of the rollout has taken many by surprise. This update introduces the highly anticipated Apple Intelligence features, but it’s important to note that only select iPhone models will be able to take advantage of these enhancements. Moreover, O2 customers using an iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 will also reap the benefits of this update.
What is Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence is the tech giant’s proprietary artificial intelligence system, which has been available in various countries for a while now. With this new update, seven additional languages, including German, have been integrated. To access the full range of Apple Intelligence features, you’ll need either an iPhone 15 Pro, an iPhone 16, or the newly released iPhone 16e. Users with older devices will only experience minor updates, which we will discuss further.
Exclusive Benefits for O2 Customers
With the introduction of iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4, O2 customers can now utilize the advanced 5G standalone network (5G Plus) on compatible iPhones and iPads. The supported devices include the latest iPhone 15 and 16 models, in addition to all current iPads. Unlike previous 5G services, ‘5G Plus’ enhances the entire signal process through the 5G standard, eliminating reliance on the LTE core network. This switch is designed to provide users with more stable connections and reduced latency.
As part of the launch, O2 is offering the necessary ‘5G Plus’ package free of charge for twelve months, which can be accessed via the Mein-O2 app or the self-care portal. The service is available for both physical SIM cards and eSIMs.
Exciting New Features in iOS 18.4
Among the minor updates included in iOS 18.4 is the ability to integrate vacuum robots into the Home app. Additionally, users can look forward to new emojis like a harp, a shovel, and a fingerprint. However, the standout features are those powered by Apple Intelligence:
Enhanced Mail App
The Mail app now benefits from deep integration with Apple Intelligence. The user interface has been revamped, and the AI automatically organizes emails into specific categories. This categorization is enabled by default but can be switched to a chronological view in the settings. The AI is also capable of summarizing lengthy emails and suggesting suitable responses, while the search functionality has been significantly improved.
New Writing Tools
A fresh writing tool will enable users to modify the tone of their text, allowing for friendlier or more professional communication. The rewrite feature even lets you transform text into different formats, such as poetry. This functionality is conveniently integrated into the iOS keyboard, making it easy to edit messages within apps like WhatsApp.
Image Playground App
The new ‘Image Playground’ app allows users to create images based on textual prompts. Similar to ChatGPT, you can simply input a description, and the app will generate images in either animation or illustration styles, although realistic images are not supported. The app also offers predefined categories for inspiration and the ability to convert photos or sketches from your gallery into AI-generated artworks.
Genmoji Creation
With Apple Intelligence, you can now create personalized ‘Genmojis.’ Just describe your idea or upload a selfie, and the AI will generate a unique emoji-style image. The best part is that Genmojis are compatible with rich text formatting, so even Android users can view them. However, there have been some reliability issues during testing, particularly with WhatsApp, where the function occasionally crashes.
Visual Intelligence Feature
Visual Intelligence is a handy tool for everyday tasks. By simply pointing your camera at public places, such as restaurants, users can instantly access information like opening hours, reviews, and popular dishes. This feature also allows the AI to read text aloud, recognize phone numbers and addresses, and even directly add them to your contacts. Users can assign this function to the action button or camera button on the iPhone 16, with the option to add a toggle in the control center.
Siri Enhancements
Siri is set to become significantly smarter thanks to Apple Intelligence, although some features have been postponed. Notably, the ability for Siri to understand and remember personal contexts has been delayed. However, a new feature allows Siri to be controlled via text by double-tapping the bottom of the screen, which is particularly useful in public settings.
Activating Apple Intelligence
After updating, Apple Intelligence is not activated by default. Users must navigate to ‘Apple Intelligence & Siri’ in the settings to enable the AI functionalities. Once activated, you will need to wait for the installation of all features before diving into the new AI capabilities.
Apple Intelligence Expands to Mac and iPad
Apple Intelligence is also making its debut on the Apple Vision Pro, though currently available only in English. This expansion aims to revolutionize user interaction across devices.
Apple is already developing its next major update, iOS 19. For more information on what to expect and which devices will support the new version, stay tuned for updates!