Apple has officially rolled out iOS 18.3, the latest software update for compatible iPhones, following several weeks of beta testing. This update, though not packed with flashy new features, brings significant improvements, particularly to Apple Intelligence—Apple’s suite of smart, AI-driven features. In fact, for the first time, Apple Intelligence is enabled by default on all supported devices. Along with this major change, iOS 18.3 also brings fixes for Notification Summaries and enhancements to Visual Intelligence.
This update marks a pivotal shift in how Apple users will interact with their devices, as it seamlessly integrates advanced AI capabilities into the user experience. Let’s dive deeper into what’s new with iOS 18.3 and how it changes the way we use our iPhones.
Here are the key changes in iOS 18.3:
- Apple Intelligence Enabled by Default: For the first time, Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI-driven features, is automatically activated, offering enhancements like ChatGPT integration with Siri, image recognition, custom emojis, and notification summaries.
- Improved Visual Intelligence: Upgrades to the Visual Intelligence feature allow for more accurate object recognition, such as identifying pets and plants. You can now scan posters or items with dates and export them directly to your calendar.
- Notification Summaries Fix: Apple has made adjustments to Notification Summaries, particularly for “News and Entertainment” apps. These are now off by default to address earlier issues, with users able to turn them on for specific apps.
- Cross-Device Updates: Along with iOS 18.3, updates for iPadOS 18.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, and watchOS 11.3 were released, enhancing the overall Apple ecosystem.
- Bug Fixes & Security Updates: As with most updates, iOS 18.3 includes bug fixes and security patches to ensure better performance and security.
Apple Intelligence Now Enabled by Default
One of the most notable changes in iOS 18.3 is the default activation of Apple Intelligence. This marks a major step for the company as it rolls out AI-powered features to all users without needing to opt in manually. For users who may prefer not to use these AI-driven tools, such as the integration of ChatGPT with Siri, visual recognition features, and notification summaries, there’s an easy way to turn them off. Simply head to the settings to disable Apple Intelligence if desired.
Apple Intelligence includes a range of features designed to make your iPhone smarter. These tools use machine learning and AI to enhance everyday tasks, from virtual assistants like Siri to advanced image recognition, and even personalized notifications. Now that it’s enabled by default, Apple aims to offer users a more intuitive and streamlined experience across its ecosystem of devices, which includes the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and more.
Visual Intelligence Gets Smarter in iOS 18.3
One of the standout features of Apple Intelligence is Visual Intelligence, which has received notable upgrades in iOS 18.3. Previously introduced as part of the iPhone 16 lineup, Visual Intelligence leverages machine learning to help users gain more insights from their surroundings using their phone’s camera. In iOS 18.3, this feature goes beyond simply snapping photos. Now, users can identify objects like pets, plants, and even posters, providing a whole new layer of utility to the camera.
For example, Visual Intelligence can now help you identify a pet, such as a dog or cat, or various types of plants. When I tested it with my mini Bernedoodle, Rosie, the feature successfully recognized her, adding a fun and practical way to interact with your environment. Moreover, if you come across a poster with a date or event, you can simply scan it with your phone and export it directly to your calendar, automatically creating a new event.
This enhancement makes Visual Intelligence much more than a photo tool. It offers users practical ways to use their phone’s camera for day-to-day tasks, similar to other apps like Google Lens or even the multi-modal capabilities found in ChatGPT’s iOS app. Although still in its beta stage, Apple is continually improving Visual Intelligence, and this update is a step toward making it an essential tool for iPhone users.
Notification Summaries Get a Much-Needed Update
Apple also focused on improving the Notification Summaries feature with the release of iOS 18.3. This tool was designed to help users manage their notifications by summarizing them and displaying them in a more organized way. However, when Notification Summaries were first introduced, they caused some issues, including an embarrassing misstep when the feature summarized a story incorrectly regarding a high-profile news event.
To address these issues, Apple has made changes to how Notification Summaries work, especially for “News and Entertainment” apps. In iOS 18.3, Notification Summaries for these types of apps are now turned off by default, with users able to manually enable them for specific apps if desired. This change reflects Apple’s commitment to improving the feature, ensuring that notifications are more reliable and contextually appropriate.
For users who have had previous versions of iOS (such as 18.1 or 18.2), iOS 18.3 will automatically enable Apple Intelligence, including Notification Summaries, assuming the device is compatible. If you prefer to manage this functionality, you can still turn it off in the settings.
Apple’s Expanded Ecosystem of Updates
Alongside iOS 18.3, Apple also released several updates for its other devices. iPadOS 18.3, macOS Sequoia 15.3, watchOS 11.3, and updates for the Apple Vision Pro, HomePod, HomePod mini, and Apple TV 4K all came out simultaneously, enhancing the overall ecosystem experience.
Whether you’re using an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple Watch, the updates aim to streamline and improve the cross-device experience, ensuring everything works more seamlessly. As always, it’s important to stay up-to-date with these updates, as they typically include bug fixes and security patches in addition to new features.
The Bottom Line: iOS 18.3 is a Solid Update
While iOS 18.3 may not deliver the kind of show-stopping features seen in previous major updates, it does offer a host of valuable under-the-hood improvements. Apple Intelligence being enabled by default is a significant step forward for Apple’s AI capabilities, and the enhancements to Visual Intelligence and Notification Summaries make this a worthwhile update for users who enjoy getting the most out of their devices.
If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to update your iPhone, iPad, or other Apple devices. Not only will you gain access to these new features, but you’ll also ensure your device is running securely and efficiently with the latest bug fixes and security updates.
Whether you’re interested in Apple’s new AI features or simply want a smoother experience on your iPhone, iOS 18.3 is a step in the right direction. It’s a smaller update in terms of visible features, but it lays the groundwork for even more exciting advancements in the future. Be sure to keep an eye on future updates as Apple continues to refine and expand Apple Intelligence across its product lineup.