The release of iOS 18.3 is set for next week. While it may not introduce a plethora of features, this update marks a pivotal moment for Apple Intelligence, attributed to a daring decision by Apple.
Apple Intelligence Activated by Default in iOS 18.3
Apple has chosen iOS 18.3 as the right moment to activate Apple Intelligence by default across all compatible devices.
The company’s AI capabilities initially appeared in iOS 18.1 in October and saw significant enhancements with the arrival of iOS 18.2 in December.
Historically, AI features required users to manually opt in to utilize them.
Now, Apple is making a bold move by enabling AI for all users by default.
This decision is particularly noteworthy given another shift in Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.3.
iOS 18.3 to Temporarily Disable One AI Feature
It’s common for tech companies to face backlash during AI rollouts, and Apple is no exception.
The company has faced criticism for AI-generated notification summaries that have provided misleading news reports.
As a result, while iOS 18.3 signifies a major stride in embracing Apple Intelligence, it also includes an important precautionary measure.
While the AI will be activated by default for users, Apple is temporarily disabling notification summaries for two categories: News & Entertainment.
It’s rare for an iOS update to remove an existing feature, but that’s precisely what will occur with iOS 18.3—at least for now.
Apple intends to improve the feature’s accuracy before reintroducing it later.
In the interim, the only AI feature that has sparked controversy for Apple Intelligence will be scaled back.
Apple Maintains Cautious Stance on AI Following Established Principles
This decision underscores Apple’s ongoing caution in the AI domain.
During the initial beta testing of Apple Intelligence and after the public launch of iOS 18.1, Apple implemented waitlists to ensure the efficacy of its AI features.
One of Apple’s core principles regarding ‘Responsible AI’ is to ‘Design with care.’
We take precautions at every stage of our process, including design, model training, feature development, and quality evaluation to identify how our AI tools may be misused or lead to potential harm. We will continuously and proactively improve our AI tools with the help of user feedback.
The developments in iOS 18.3 exemplify this principle.
Apple utilized an extensive testing phase before enabling AI by default for users.
Even while taking this ambitious step, Apple is pausing one of its AI features that has not yet performed as needed.
Will activating Apple Intelligence by default provoke a backlash or controversy?
Only time will tell. For now, the timing and execution of this move appear appropriate.
What are your thoughts on the Apple Intelligence updates in iOS 18.3? Share your opinions in the comments.
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