Apple has unveiled its latest update, iOS 18.4, bringing exciting new features, expanded Apple Intelligence capabilities, and enhancements to various devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and the Apple Vision Pro. Alongside iOS 18.4, other Apple software updates have been released, including iPadOS 18.4, macOS Sequoia 15.4, watchOS 11.4, and visionOS 2.4.
Apple Intelligence Expands to New Regions and Languages
One of the standout features of iOS 18.4 is the expansion of Apple Intelligence, Apple’s suite of AI-powered tools. Initially introduced in iOS 18.1, Apple Intelligence is now available in more regions and languages, making it more accessible than ever. Users in the European Union, India, and Singapore can now take advantage of Apple Intelligence. Additionally, the suite now supports several new languages, including French (for both France and Canada), German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish (Spain, LATAM, and the U.S.), Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese.
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The update brings AI-powered features such as Priority Notifications, Image Playground, and Visual Intelligence to iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16 series, and M1 and later iPads and Macs. Apple Intelligence is also making its way to the Vision Pro, with new features becoming available on the mixed-reality headset as part of the visionOS 2.4 update.
Essential New Feature
One of the most eagerly anticipated features in iOS 18.4 is Priority Notifications. This feature utilizes Apple Intelligence to identify and prioritize important notifications that require immediate attention. Now, users no longer have to sift through an overwhelming stack of notifications; critical alerts will be positioned at the top of the notification list, ensuring they’re seen right away. This feature promises to streamline how users interact with notifications, improving productivity and reducing distractions.
New Features for Apple Vision Pro and WatchOS
In addition to iPhones and iPads, Apple Vision Pro users also benefit from the rollout of Apple Intelligence features. As part of visionOS 2.4, Apple Intelligence introduces Writing Tools, Image Playground, Genmoji, and Smart Reply for Vision Pro. Currently, these features are available exclusively in U.S. English, but the broader rollouts will likely follow as the platform matures.
WatchOS 11.4 brings an interesting new feature with “Break Through Silent Mode,” which allows sound and haptics to operate even when the device is set to silent. Additionally, Matter support has been added, enabling users to control smart home devices, such as robot vacuums, directly from their Apple Watch.
Image Playground
Apple’s AI-powered Image Playground also receives a noteworthy update in iOS 18.4. The app now includes a new Sketch style, designed for creating academic and detailed sketches. This addition further enhances Apple’s AI-driven tools for creative professionals, allowing users to generate more intricate and specific content. In addition, the update introduces Visual Intelligence to iPhone 15 Pro models, enhancing image recognition and analysis.
Updates for iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4
Alongside the introduction of Apple Intelligence, iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4 also bring other noteworthy changes. Apple has launched a new recipe companion for News Plus subscribers, providing an integrated cooking experience. Additionally, there are enhancements to the Photos app, and Apple has rolled out several bug fixes and stability improvements across all platforms.
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While iOS 18.4 and the associated updates bring significant improvements, this marks just another step in Apple’s gradual rollout of its AI capabilities. Apple first introduced Apple Intelligence at WWDC 2024 and has been expanding its feature set over several months, with the full suite of features likely to be available in the coming months. Apple has also announced that its AI features will reach the EU in 2025, following delays due to regulatory requirements.