The iPhone 16 lineup has finally arrived in the Indian market. Launched on September 9, 2024, the series includes four new models: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. For those looking to buy the new generation iPhones, they are available through Apple’s flagship stores in Mumbai and Delhi as well as popular online and offline retailers such as Amazon, Flipkart, and Croma.

While the hardware updates on the iPhone 16 series are impressive – with the latest processors, upgraded cameras, and sleek design – one of the most anticipated features is Apple Intelligence, Apple’s new AI-powered platform. However, if you’re buying the iPhone 16 for Apple Intelligence, you might be disappointed, as the features aren’t available yet and aren’t coming anytime soon.

The company’s generative AI platform, Apple Intelligence, promises to bring a number of new features aimed at improving productivity and creativity. Although the iPhone 16 series is designed with Apple Intelligence in mind, it will require a software update to unlock these powerful features. According to Apple, it will start releasing the Apple Intelligence feature with the iOS 18.1 update in the US around November, but for users in India, the wait could be even longer. Although Apple Intelligence will initially support US English, the platform will be fully available in Indian English by early 2025. Those who prefer Indian regional languages ​​like Hindi or Kannada may have to wait beyond that date as well.

The reason for the delay is that Apple is taking extra time to ensure that its AI-powered platform is optimised for different languages ​​and regional accents, especially in countries like India, where there is high linguistic diversity.

Apple Intelligence Compatibility

When Apple Intelligence launches, it won’t be exclusive to the iPhone 16 series. The company has announced that many older devices will also support these AI features. For iPhones, compatible models include:

• iphone 16
• iphone 16 plus
• iPhone 16 Pro
• iphone 16 pro max
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iphone 15 pro max

In addition, other Apple devices such as the iPad Air, iPad Pro, MacBook Air and MacBook Pro powered by M1, M2 and M3 chips will also be able to access this platform. This wide device compatibility shows that Apple is committed to bringing its AI innovations to the entire ecosystem, not just to its latest products.

Here is the list of some of the most awaited features coming with Apple Intelligence.

Siri’s major upgrade

Perhaps the most significant improvement will be to Siri. Apple Intelligence will completely overhaul Siri, making it far more responsive, natural, and context-aware. For example, Siri will be able to understand multi-step instructions, edit photos, and even send messages with minimal user input. Siri’s new on-screen awareness feature means it can provide more relevant responses based on what’s happening within the app or task you’re performing.

Visual intelligence

Visual Intelligence is another powerful feature. With this tool, users can point their camera at objects like restaurant menus or flyers, and the AI ​​will instantly provide relevant information or even schedule events. It’s a seamless integration of AI with the iPhone’s camera, adding another layer of functionality that feels intuitive and powerful.

AI-powered writing tools

Apple Intelligence will introduce advanced writing tools integrated into apps like Messages, Mail, and Notes. These tools can proofread, adjust tone, and even summarize large sections of text. Whether you’re writing a professional email or an informal message, Apple’s AI can help make your communications clear and concise.

Clean-up tools for photos

This feature allows users to easily remove unwanted elements from their photos. Whether it’s a passerby in the background or an object that’s spoiling your shot, the clean-up tool will intelligently erase these distractions and preserve the image quality.

Summary for calls and messages

Apple Intelligence will also help users manage their communications by providing AI-generated summaries for long messages, emails, and even phone calls. For anyone who has a large volume of conversations, this feature will make it much easier to stay organized.

Image Playground and Zenmoji

Apple has confirmed that tools such as Image Playground and Zenmoji will arrive in 2025. Image Playground will allow users to generate visuals based on simple gestures, while Zenmoji will enable the creation of custom emojis similar to those of users or their friends, adding a personal touch to messaging.