Apple turns its AI on by default in latest software update

Apple on Monday released a software update for iPhones, iPads and Macs that turns Apple Intelligence on by default for users with supported devices.

The updates, iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3 and macOS Sequoia 15.3, also disable AI summaries for news apps, which have gained a reputation for twisting news push notifications to display inaccurate facts.

The release is a milestone in the rollout of Apple Intelligence, the company's suite of artificial intelligence features. Apple Intelligence is a critical service for Apple as it seeks to distinguish its products from competitors with an AI system integrated into iPhones and its other devices.

While Apple Intelligence is already featured in the company's marketing for the latest iPhones, the rollout has been deliberate and limited. Apple says that is to allow it to test new features and make sure it has enough server capacity. The entire Apple Intelligence suite is still officially in beta, and it's only available in a handful of English-speaking countries.

Apple's move to turn Apple Intelligence on by default is a step toward a more complete rollout of the feature. Previously, users with supported iPhones — models that were released in 2024 as well as 2023 "Pro" level models — were prompted to turn on Apple Intelligence when setting up their phone, a process that included downloading AI models from the internet and some installation.

With the latest updates, Apple Intelligence will be turned on by default when the latest software update is installed, expanding the number of users who are exposed to the software. Apple Intelligence is marketed as being able to rewrite text, generate images, and summarize long emails and message threads.

"For users new or upgrading to iOS 18.3, Apple