Apple is preparing to make its big foray into artificial intelligence with Apple Intelligence, a set of AI tools that will be available for iPhone and Mac by the end of 2024. The Cupertino-based company has focused its development on improving the user experience with new natural language processing capabilities, advanced Siri features, and productivity enhancements. However, its launch will not be global or uniform, as some features will be restricted to Europe.
Apple Intelligence is scheduled to be launched on October 28, 2024, with the arrival of iOS 18.1 and its integration into Apple devices, according to Mark Gurman's forecast in his weekly newsletter, Power On. Although the official date marks the beginning of this new era of AI for iPhone and Mac users, not all features will be available from day one, as the most advanced ones will be released gradually.
The first features users can use include new AI-based text editing options, which promise to optimize tasks such as proofreading, spelling, and grammar in real-time. Also included will be options to automate certain routine functions in native apps, such as Notes, Reminders, and Messages. Siri will receive a significant update that will allow her to understand more complex and contextual commands.
Restrictions in Europe
One of Apple's main challenges in this massive deployment of AI is the regulatory restrictions in the European Union. Many of Apple Intelligence's advanced features will initially be limited in this region due to privacy and data security concerns.
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) restricts how technology companies can handle users' personal information. As a result, some of Apple Intelligence's essential features, such as advanced data processing and predictive capabilities, may only be fully available to European users once Apple adjusts its policies and complies with European regulations.
However, Apple has clarified that it is working to meet regulatory requirements and that European users will be included. The company is developing customized versions of its AI tools that comply with EU regulations. However, implementation is slower than in other regions.
Testing Apple Intelligence in Europe
The first step in activating Apple Intelligence on a Mac is downloading the latest beta version of macOS Sequoia 15.1 beta 2. You must sign up for the Apple Beta Software Program and register your test computer. The process is similar if you prefer to test Apple Intelligence on an iPhone or iPad. First, download iOS 18.1 beta two by signing up for the Apple Beta Software Program.
One of the pillars of Apple Intelligence is the evolution of Siri, the voice assistant who will better understand the context of conversations and answer complex questions more accurately. In addition, the new Siri will have a proactive approach, i.e., it can anticipate users' needs and offer suggestions based on behavior.
The new AI will also integrate improvements to Focus Mode, allowing users to customize it better. Multitasking tools will also benefit from this artificial intelligence, facilitating greater efficiency when switching between different applications and workflows.
