iPhone Messages app now offers DALL-E AI image generation

Apple’s latest iOS 18.2 update enables users to generate AI-created images directly within the Messages app using DALL·E through ChatGPT integration.

New Feature Overview: The integration of ChatGPT with Apple Intelligence brings advanced AI image generation capabilities to supported iPhone models, specifically the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16.

• The feature allows users to create custom images through voice commands in the Messages app
• DALL·E’s image generation capabilities typically produce higher quality results compared to Apple’s Image Playground
• Users can access this functionality without a ChatGPT account, though account holders can sign in for additional features

Setup Process: The ChatGPT integration requires a straightforward configuration within the iPhone’s settings menu.

• Navigate to Settings and select “Apple Intelligence & Siri”
• Locate ChatGPT under “Extensions”
• Enable the “Use ChatGPT” toggle
• Optional: Sign in with existing ChatGPT account credentials

Using the Feature: Image generation in Messages works through Siri voice commands with specific ChatGPT triggers.

• Users can activate Siri and preface requests with “ChatGPT” to ensure the AI handles the query
• Image generation occurs directly within the Messages text input field
• Generated images can be sent immediately or refined further

Refinement Options: Users have multiple ways to adjust and improve generated images before sending.

• The “Rewrite” option generates a completely new image based on the original prompt
• Pre-generated suggestions help add specific details to the image
• “Refine with ChatGPT” allows for custom modifications through detailed text prompts

Practical Applications: These new capabilities significantly expand Siri’s functionality beyond traditional voice assistant features.

• The system handles complex queries including problem-solving tasks
• Writing assistance and detailed explanations are supported
• Step-by-step instructions can be generated through voice commands

Future Implications: This integration marks a significant step in making AI image generation more accessible and useful in everyday communication, though the limited device compatibility suggests Apple is taking a measured approach to rolling out these advanced features.