Okay, folks, buckle up! Apple’s about to unleash its "Intelligence" – and no, it’s not another overpriced phone. It’s supposed to make your devices smarter, but it’s coming out in beta. So, basically, you’re Apple’s guinea pig.
Apple’s “Intelligence”: More Like “Artificial Stupidity” (Beta Version)?
Apple’s big reveal, "Apple Intelligence," is supposed to revolutionize iPhones, iPads, and Macs with new AI-powered features. They’re rolling it out slowly, starting with iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1. But don’t get too excited, because even Apple admits it’s not quite ready for primetime. They’re calling it a "beta" – which in tech-speak means "we’re not sure if it actually works yet."
Who gets to be a lab rat?
Well, if you’ve got the latest iPhone 16 or the iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, you’re in luck. Same goes for folks with Apple silicon iPads and Macs. But if you’re still rocking an older device, tough luck – you’re stuck with "regular stupid."
But what does this “Intelligence” actually *do*?
Apparently, it can do all sorts of fancy things, like:
- Summarize stuff: Emails, text messages, articles – you name it, Apple Intelligence will condense it for you. Perfect for those with the attention span of a goldfish.
- Write for you: Need a quick reply to an email or text? Apple Intelligence has got your back. Just don’t blame it if your messages start sounding like a robot wrote them.
- Find stuff: Looking for that embarrassing photo of you from last year’s Christmas party? No problem, just describe it to Apple Intelligence and it’ll dig it up.
- Make Siri less annoying: Siri’s getting a makeover, with a fancy new glow and the ability to understand you even when you mumble. Finally, a voice assistant that can decipher my drunken requests!
The Catch (Because There’s Always a Catch)
First of all, this whole "Intelligence" thing is only available in US English. So, if you’re not an American, you’re out of luck. Secondly, you have to join a waitlist. Because apparently, Apple’s servers can’t handle everyone getting smart at the same time.
The Future of “Intelligence” (Maybe)
Apple says they’ll be adding more features in future updates. They’re talking about integrating ChatGPT with Siri (because who doesn’t want to have a conversation with a chatbot?), and other fancy stuff like "on-screen awareness." But knowing Apple, these updates might not come until your phone is obsolete and you’re forced to buy a new one.
So, is Apple Intelligence the real deal?
Well, it’s hard to say. It could be the next big thing, or it could be another Apple flop. But one thing’s for sure: they’re not making it easy for us to find out. The waitlist, the limited availability, the beta status – it all reeks of "we’re not really sure about this, but let’s throw it out there and see what happens." Classic Apple.
Stay tuned, folks. This could be interesting. Or it could be a total disaster. Only time will tell.
From the sales floor to the critic's corner, I'm a former Apple Sales Specialist who's not afraid to tell it like it is. Get my honest takes on the iPhone, Mac, and everything Apple. | Los Angeles, California.