Key Features and Updates
Apple Intelligence continues to grow with new tools that improve how users interact with their devices. One of the main additions is Priority Notifications. This feature lets Apple’s AI sort through all alerts and show the most important or time-sensitive ones first. This helps users quickly see what needs attention without scrolling through less critical messages.
The rollout comes alongside updates to Apple’s main operating systems:
- iOS 18.4
- iPadOS 18.4
- macOS Sequoia 15.4
These updates bring Apple Intelligence to more devices and regions. iPhone and iPad users in the European Union can now use these AI features, while Vision Pro headset users in the U.S. get new AI tools designed for mixed reality.
Language Support and Regions
Apple has expanded the languages supported by its AI. It now includes:
- French
- German
- Italian
- Portuguese (Brazil)
- Spanish
- Japanese
- Korean
- Simplified Chinese
In addition, localized versions of English are available for Singapore and India. This lets more people use Apple Intelligence naturally in their preferred language.
New Tools on Mac and Image Playground
The update adds a way to create a “memory movie” on Mac. Users can type a simple description and let the AI turn it into a short video. This feature aims to make storytelling easier and more creative.
The Image Playground app also gains a new Sketch style. It allows users to generate detailed and academic-style drawings using AI. This expands the creative options for users who want more precise or artistic images.
Broader AI Rollout Timeline
Apple’s AI tools have been released gradually. Apple Intelligence first appeared with iOS 18.1, but many features like ChatGPT integration and the Image Playground tool arrived in later updates, such as iOS 18.2. This slow rollout approach shows Apple’s focus on refining each tool before releasing it widely.
The European launch faced delays due to regulatory rules, including the Digital Markets Act. These rules pushed Apple to adjust its AI rollout to meet the EU’s tech safety and fairness standards.
Enhanced Experience for Vision Pro
Vision Pro users benefit from the new update by accessing AI-powered tools specially adapted for mixed reality. Features include:
- Writing Tools
- Image Playground
- Genmoji (animated emojis)
This expansion makes the Vision Pro headset more interactive and personalized.
Additional Updates and Features
The software update also delivers new emojis such as:
- Paint splatter
- Face with bags under the eyes
- Fingerprint
- Root vegetable
- Shovel
These emojis add fresh options for expression in messaging apps.
Apple has introduced Apple News+ Food, a new recipe assistant that helps users find and organize cooking ideas.
Child safety features have been improved along with changes to Apple Photos and other services. These tweaks enhance user security and the overall app experience.
Summary Table of New Features
| Feature | Description | Available On |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Notifications | AI highlights urgent notifications first | iPhone, iPad |
| Memory Movie Creation | AI creates short videos from text input | Mac |
| Sketch Style | New detailed drawing style in Image Playground | iPhone, iPad |
| Language Support | Added multiple new languages and localized English versions | iPhone, iPad, Mac |
| Vision Pro AI Tools | Writing Tools, Image Playground, Genmoji for mixed reality | Vision Pro headset |
| New Emojis | Several new expressive emojis | All Apple devices |
| Apple News+ Food | Recipe assistant for cooking ideas | iPhone, iPad |
| Child Safety Updates | Enhancements to protect children | All Apple devices |
These updates extend Apple Intelligence’s reach while focusing on making devices smarter and more helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Apple handle priority notifications across EU countries with different privacy regulations?
Apple adapts its priority notification system to meet each country’s privacy laws. It uses local rules to control what data is processed and how notifications are managed. This ensures compliance with different legal standards while still providing timely alerts for users throughout Europe.
What new capabilities will EU users gain from the updated priority notifications feature?
EU users can expect alerts that highlight the most important messages first. The system may also include tools for better writing help and smarter notification sorting. These features aim to reduce distractions by focusing on critical updates more effectively.
How does Apple’s technology decide which alerts are marked as high-priority?
The system evaluates several factors, including the sender, message content, and user preferences. It uses artificial intelligence to rank notifications so that essential ones appear at the top of the list while less urgent ones stay lower.
What are the options for EU users to enable or disable priority notifications?
Users in the EU can choose to turn priority notifications on or off through their device settings. Apple provides clear controls that allow users to manage their alert preferences, giving them the freedom to decide how these notifications work for them.
Will priority notifications impact battery life or data usage for EU users?
Priority notifications may use additional processing but Apple designs the system to minimize effects on battery and data. Users should see little to no noticeable impact during everyday use.
What measures does Apple take to meet GDPR rules in the use of priority notifications?
Apple applies strict data protection practices to follow GDPR. This includes limiting data collection, securing user information, and providing transparency about how notifications are handled. The company updates its policies to align with the latest European privacy requirements.
