Apple Intelligence auto-activates in iOS 18.3, but you can opt out

Apple will automatically enable its AI features on iOS devices with the upcoming iOS 18.3 release, marking a shift from the previous opt-in approach to an opt-out model.

Key update details: The forthcoming iOS 18.3 release will automatically activate Apple Intelligence features during device setup, requiring users to manually disable them if desired.

• The change applies to iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS 15.3
• Users must navigate to Apple Intelligence & Siri Settings to disable the features
• The update affects both new device setups and upgrades to iOS 18.3

Previous implementation: Apple’s approach to AI feature adoption has evolved significantly since the initial rollout.

• Earlier versions (iOS 18.1 and 18.2) required explicit user consent to enable AI features
• Most users with supported devices have already opted into Apple Intelligence
• The impact on users who previously disabled these features remains unclear

Feature context: The iOS 18.3 update introduces several modifications to existing AI capabilities.

• The release includes changes to AI notification summaries, which have been a source of user debate
• Overall, iOS 18.3 is considered a minor update with limited new features
• Apple appears to be timing this change with improvements to its most discussed AI feature

Implementation timeline: The update’s release candidate beta confirms the imminent launch of these changes.

• The shift to opt-out AI features coincides with several months of public availability
• Apple has published official beta release notes detailing the new approach
• The change will be implemented across iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices simultaneously

Looking ahead: This automatic enablement of AI features signals Apple’s growing confidence in its artificial intelligence offerings and suggests the company sees these capabilities as core functionality rather than optional features. However, the success of this strategy will likely depend on user reception and the effectiveness of the improved notification system.