Apple's iOS 18 AI Features May Launch in Beta or Preview Mode; Not Yet Available?

Apple's iOS 18 is expected and speculated to be the biggest update thanks to new AI features, but what is not known to many is that the company may not yet be ready for a public release.

Apple will reportedly put iOS 18's AI features under a "beta" or "preview" status, which means that not all will have the chance to access it or use its features widely.

Apple's iOS 18 AI Features: Beta or Preview Availability on Launch

Apple's iOS 18 AI Features: Beta or Preview Availability on Lau

The latest Power On newsletter from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman claimed that Apple's iOS 18 launch would not yet fully feature the AI technology expected to arrive with the OS once it is available. While this does not mean that there would be delays or that it would be unavailable upon launch, it would be available for users to access under the beta or preview of iOS 18.

It is also a good move for Apple, particularly as AI adoption is fast-paced in the industry, with many companies seeing mistakes or bugs that plague their systems.

Being under the beta or preview label would suggest that it is still in a stage where it could be improved or upgraded, one that it will hold until it is ready for wide availability.

Is Apple Ready to Release Its AI?

While this beta or preview for iOS 18's AI features suggests that Apple is not yet ready, the company wants its users to experience what it can offer and ask for feedback on its development.

It also lowers users' expectations, especially as this is Apple's first attempt at generative AI capabilities for its operating systems. Moreover, Apple will operate its AI both on-device and via the cloud during this time, opposing the belief that it will do so hardware-based.

It is also expected that Apple's AI will be available in the latest generations and the one before that of the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Apple's iOS 18 and Its AI Upgrade

Touted as Apple's 'biggest update ever' on iOS, iOS 18, the upcoming iPhone operating system is believed to be the game changer for Cupertino's devices as it will finally adopt AI.

However, Apple is not going the 'fully homemade route' with this, as there are reports about its current discussions regarding a partnership with OpenAI to bring ChatGPT to iOS 18 and 'supercharge' the experience.

Apple CEO Tim Cook dropped various hints regarding the rising presence of AI in future experiences from its tech. However, there were no absolute words regarding iOS 18's AI features and what will be expected once it arrives. For now, Apple is reportedly not yet ready for a public release, with iOS 18's AI features to be under beta or preview, with more to be explained in the upcoming WWDC 2024.