Apple Intelligence is now coming to the iPhone 16 series — and it’s free.
There was some debate about whether Apple’s new suite of AI tools would cost a subscription fee. But VP of Software Craig Federighi confirmed at the Apple event on Monday, that it doesn’t cost a thing — besides the actual cost of the iPhone 16 which starts at $799 and $899 for the iPhone 16 Plus.
Apple’s collection of AI features, branded as Apple Intelligence, made its debut at WWDC 2024, showcasing new AI-powered tools like a smarter Siri, notification summaries, Genmoji, and more. Initially, Apple Intelligence was reserved for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models. But now, the non-Pro versions of the iPhone 16 are getting it too.
Apple Intelligence comes to iPhone 16
Here are the Apple Intelligence features announced for the iPhone 16. According to Apple’s release schedule, some of these features will be available with the first iOS 18 version, and others will come with later updates.
Writing Tools: As Federighi said, Apple Intelligence is available “wherever you type,” including third-party apps like Slack and Goodreads. The AI integration helps iPhone 16 users draft, rewrite, and proofread text.
Transcription and summaries in Notes: Apple Intelligence enables Apple users to transcribe and summarize calls and audio recordings.
Genmoji: With Apple Intelligence, you can create new emoji by typing a description or create new images with Image Playground.
Photos: In the Photos app, you can find an image you’re looking for by typing a description or even a specific moment in a video. This also includes building a collection of movies.
AI-generated summaries: In Mail and notifications on the home screen, you can get a quick summary of your inbox in the Mail app. Apple Intelligence also provides AI-generated summaries of notifications and prioritizes them based on importance.
Behold, the new Siri: As promised, Siri is more natural, contextually relevant, and more personalized. Aside from voice prompts, you can type to Siri. The voice assistant also has more expansive knowledge for helping troubleshoot or accomplish something on your iPhone 16. Siri also has more contextual on-screen awareness, so it sees what you see on the screen, or a collection of photos you referenced.
Apple Intelligence on iPhone 16 will be available in beta in October in the U.S. and will roll out in English first.
Mashable is currently in Cupertino for the Sept. 9 “Glowtime” Apple event. Check out our live blog to keep track of all things Apple Intelligence before, during, and after the event.
