In a development that could be seen as somewhat expected, Apple is currently lagging in the AI space this year, opting for a measured approach to introducing features as they become well-polished. After initially showcasing its advancements at WWDC in June, the company used its recent "It's Glowtime" product launch to emphasize how Apple Intelligence will significantly enhance the iPhone experience. Additionally, I had hands-on experience with the iPhone 16 Pro and identified my top three favorite features of this powerful device. However, there’s a catch: these new features will require iOS 18, launching on September 16, and a relatively recent iPhone model. This means that even if you update to iOS 18 on an older model, you’ll need to upgrade your iPhone to one of the specified models below in order to experience Apple Intelligence upon its release. On the bright side, preorders for Apple's iPhone 16 lineup are already open, along with various deals available. What new AI features are included with iOS 18? While iOS 18 is not expected to debut with the complete array of Apple Intelligence features, upcoming versions should introduce a range of new AI tools, such as: - Enhanced Siri - Summarization tools for email, Keynotes, third-party applications, and more - Writing aids (including rewriting, proofreading, and text summarization) - Apple Image Playground - Genmoji - Priority notifications - AI-generated photo memory videos - Video search capabilities - AI-driven photo editing - Image Wand in the Notes app In addition to these AI capabilities, iOS 18 will include an upgraded Control Center, new privacy features for locking or hiding apps, scheduled messages, enhanced Messages via Satellite, and a feature that allows two phones to tap together to exchange Apple Cash, among others. Which iPhone models are compatible with these new AI features? To take advantage of these features, you'll need at least an iPhone 15 Pro or a more recent model. While requiring the latest hardware for access to these new features may appear to be a strategy to encourage obsolescence or an attempt to generate additional revenue, it is likely a combination of both. Apple has stated that this requirement relates to the processing capabilities (such as RAM and memory) necessary for the new AI functions, particularly those that demand on-device processing. Additionally, executing AI tasks on the device provides two main advantages: enhanced security for user data and reduced latency. Apple asserts that not all iPhones, especially older versions, possess the processing capabilities to manage these tasks.

The new AI features will depend on both cloud and on-device processing based on the demands of the specific task. Apple indicates that these tasks necessitate at least the A17 Pro chip, currently exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. Consequently, the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, while released alongside the Pro models, lack support for the AI enhancements due to their A16 Bionic SoC. The iPhone 16 lineup, equipped with A18 and A18 Pro chips, is best positioned for the complete AI experience. In addition, if you do not possess the iPhone 15 Pro and have no immediate plans to upgrade, there's no need to worry; you may still access some Apple Intelligence features, particularly those that operate via the cloud. However, to enjoy the full experience, you should consider preparing for a new iPhone purchase. Which Mac and iPad models are compatible with Apple Intelligence? The good news for Mac and iPad users is that upgrading to the latest models is not necessary. To access the AI features on a Mac or iPad, your device must have at least the M1 chip. Given that Apple is currently producing M4 iPads and M3 Macs, many users with earlier models should still have the opportunity to engage with the latest AI functionalities.