Apple enables AI by default in latest software update

Apple’s software update enables Apple Intelligence by default, disables AI news summaries, and addresses past inaccuracies in notifications.

Apple released a software update on Monday, enabling Apple Intelligence by default on iPhones, iPads, and Macs for supported devices.

The updates include iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS Sequoia 15.3.

Additionally, the update disables AI summaries for news apps that have been criticized for delivering inaccurate push notifications.

This marks a significant step in the rollout of Apple Intelligence, which aims to differentiate Apple products through integrated AI features.

Previously, users had to manually enable Apple Intelligence during phone setup.

Now, it will automatically be available upon updating the software, increasing user exposure to the technology.

The AI can perform functions such as rewriting text, generating images, and summarising communications.

To disable the feature, users will need to go to the Apple Intelligence settings.

The update also addresses prior controversies surrounding AI features.

Apple joins Google and Microsoft in retracting AI functionalities that produced misleading content.

The AI is capable of condensing notifications into concise summaries.

However, previous outputs have led to public confusion; for instance, it incorrectly summarised a notification about Rafael Nadal.

In response to concerns, Apple has paused the summarization feature for news and entertainment apps, with plans to reintroduce it later.

A BBC spokesperson acknowledged Apple’s decision as a positive step forward.