iOS 18.1: New features, release date, and more

Apple Intelligence Overview
iOS 18.1 rolls out Apple’s suite of artificial intelligence features, first revealed at WWDC in June. The initial set of capabilities will be included in this update, with more to follow throughout the year.

Writing Tools

The new Writing Tools feature allows users to easily rewrite, proofread, and summarize text on their iPhones with just a few taps. Available options include:

  • Rewrite
  • Proofread
  • Make Friendly
  • Make Professional
  • Make Concise
  • Summarize
  • Create Key Points
  • Make List
  • Make Table

Users can access these tools by highlighting text and selecting “Writing Tools” from the pop-up menu. Additionally, the Notes app now features a dedicated Writing Tools button in its toolbar.

Reduce Interruptions

A new Focus mode, Reduce Interruptions, uses AI to filter notifications, showing only those that need immediate attention, like urgent text messages. Users can customize which apps and contacts can bypass this filter through the Settings app.

Photos App Enhancements

The Photos app sees several exciting updates powered by Apple Intelligence:

  • Clean Up Feature: Easily remove unwanted objects and people from photos with a single tap.
  • On-Demand Memories: Create themed memories by typing a description, and Apple Intelligence will curate suitable photos and videos into a cohesive storyline.
  • Natural Language Search: Improved search capabilities allow users to find specific photos and even moments within videos effortlessly.

Siri Redesign and Features

While major upgrades to Siri are expected later, iOS 18.1 introduces a refreshed design featuring a glowing edge around the screen when Siri is active. Users can switch between text and voice input by double-tapping the home indicator, and Siri’s responses are now more contextually aware, providing detailed answers about Apple products.

Mail App Upgrades

The Mail app incorporates several new features:

  • Priority Messages: A dedicated section for urgent emails at the top of the inbox.
  • Summarize Button: Quickly get a summary of each email.
  • Smart Reply: Suggests quick responses and identifies questions in emails.

Transcription Summaries

Apple Intelligence enhances the Notes app by summarizing audio recordings. Call recording in the Phone app now also features summary capabilities in multiple languages.

Notification Summaries

When receiving multiple notifications from Mail or Messages, Apple Intelligence summarizes them for a quick overview. This feature has been extended to third-party apps during setup.

NFC Access for Third-Party Apps

iOS 18.1 opens the iPhone’s NFC chip to third-party developers, enabling features like in-store payments, car keys, and more, provided they enter into a commercial agreement with Apple.

Control Center Updates

Control Center receives improvements, including dedicated toggles for connectivity options and a new “Reset Control Center” feature to restore default settings.

Camera Control for iPhone 16

iOS 18.1 allows iPhone 16 users to switch to the selfie camera using the Camera Control feature.

iPhone Mirroring Enhancement

With iOS 18.1, users can now seamlessly drag and drop files between their iPhone and Mac during iPhone Mirroring.

Call Recording and Transcriptions

This feature, initially exclusive to iPhone 15 models, is now available on older models, with support for multiple languages in transcriptions.

How to Install iOS 18.1 Beta

The iOS 18.1 beta is currently available for developers and public testers, supporting all iPhone models compatible with iOS 18. However, Apple Intelligence features are limited to:

  • iPhone 15 Pro
  • iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • iPhone 16
  • iPhone 16 Plus
  • iPhone 16 Pro
  • iPhone 16 Pro Max

iOS 18.1 Release Date

Apple has confirmed that iOS 18.1 will be released to the public in October. Historically, point-one updates have been released in late October, so expect similar timing this year.

As the beta testing progresses, Apple may introduce additional changes, and updates will be provided as needed.

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