Hands-On: Apple Intelligence Features in iOS 18.1 Beta [VIDEO]

Yesterday Apple released the first iOS 18.1 beta, along with iPadOS 18.1 and macOS 15.1, all three of which now include the initial Apple Intelligence features.

Of course, only an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max, along with M1 or newer iPads and Macs will support Apple Intelligence features.

We have a full walkthrough of iOS 18.1 beta 1 and Apple Intelligence features, as shared by Brandon Butch. Some of the notable initial additions are call recording, which also gives you a transcript. No more taking notes on your phone calls!

After installing iOS 18.1 beta, you’ll realize Apple Intelligence says it’s not available in Canada. Click here to learn the workaround to get Apple Intelligence working outside the USA.

Here’s an overview of Apple Intelligence features in iOS 18.1. The new animation for Siri is pretty nice, but Siri 2.0 hasn’t arrived yet and won’t be here until 2025.

Writing Tools

• Available in apps like Messages and Notes.
• Options include Proofread, Rewrite, and specific styles like Friendly, Professional, and Concise.
• Can create summaries, key points lists, and tables from selected text.
• Works with text in other apps like Safari.

Siri Enhancements

• New UI and animations for Siri.
• Updated sound and visual feedback during use.
• Notably, Siri 2.0, which includes more advanced features, is expected in 2025.

Email Summarization

• Automatic summarization of emails, including newsletters.
• Summary appears at the top of the email and in lock screen notifications.

Phone Call Recording

• New icon during calls to start recording.
• Audible prompt alerts the other party about the recording.
• Transcripts available post-call.

Privacy and Security

• New Apple intelligence report option in settings for reporting durations and privacy settings.

Larger Emoji Keyboard

• Enlarged emojis for better visibility.
• Integrated Memoji options within the same page.

Upcoming Features

• GenEmoji and Image Playground for creating custom emojis and images.
• ChatGPT integration and priority notifications are not yet available in beta 1.
• Siri 2.0 for smarter interactions and onscreen awareness expected in future updates.

Performance and Battery Life

• Similar performance to previous iOS 18 betas.
• Slightly worse battery life anticipated due to backend processes and data feedback.