Apple’s latest iOS update requires users to opt out of new AI features

Apple has released major operating system updates across its ecosystem, with iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and MacOS 15.3 now featuring Apple Intelligence as a default setting rather than an opt-in feature.

What’s new: Apple Intelligence, the company’s artificial intelligence technology, is now automatically enabled for new and upgrading users on compatible devices.

• Users who prefer not to use the AI features must manually disable them through the Settings menu
• The feature now requires 7GB of storage space, an increase from the initial 4GB requirement
• Disabling the feature may not immediately recover the storage space

Device compatibility: Apple’s AI features are limited to specific hardware configurations that meet the necessary processing requirements.

• Compatible devices include iPhone 16 series, iPhone 15 Pro models
• iPad compatibility includes Pro and Air models with M1 chip or later, and iPad mini with A17 Pro chip
• Mac computers must have an M1 chip or later

AI-generated content updates: Apple has implemented changes to increase transparency and reliability in AI-generated content.

• AI-generated summaries are now clearly marked with italicized notices
• Notification summaries for news items have been temporarily suspended due to accuracy concerns
• Visual intelligence capabilities have been expanded to include calendar event creation from images and improved object recognition

Security and feature enhancements: The updates include significant security improvements and new functionality across devices.

• 26 security patches address vulnerabilities in various features including AirPlay, Passkeys, and Safari
• Genmoji creation capabilities have been added to Mac systems
• A bug preventing Genmoji generation without photo library selection has been fixed

Looking ahead: Major AI enhancements are anticipated in the next round of system updates.

• iOS/iPadOS 18.4 and MacOS 15.4 are expected in late March or early April
• Planned improvements include enhanced Siri capabilities with on-screen awareness
• Integration with third-party apps is also on the horizon

Future implications: While Apple’s move to enable AI by default signals confidence in the technology’s reliability, the increased storage requirements and opt-out approach may create friction for users with limited device space or privacy concerns. This shift represents Apple’s growing commitment to AI integration across its ecosystem, though questions remain about how this will impact user choice and device performance.