The rollout of Apple Intelligence AI begins today with the release of iOS 18.1

Apple Intelligence is finally here.

Apple on Monday officially released its first Apple Intelligence features via its latest software, iOS 18.1, now available for download in the US. The tech giant is rolling out the new technology gradually, with a number of AI-enhanced features it touted still not available.

Among the first examples of Apple Intelligence features now available through iOS 18.1 are improvements to Siri, which, according to Apple's announcement, has a more sophisticated look and a “natural-sounding voice,” as well as more advanced conversational capabilities. Other AI-powered features include new writing and summarizing tools and improved photo editing capabilities.

Other AI features like Genmoji or the ability for users to create their own emojis, ChatGPT integration on Apple devices and more will take longer. Meanwhile, users might find iOS 18.1's new features subtle.

“I would say if you download it and have AI, you could even say, 'Wait, that's it?' Because this is coming out in stages,” CNET Editor-in-Chief Bridget Carey told CBS Mornings.

As for the new Apple Intelligence-based Siri, “This isn't something where you immediately get a chatbot that you can talk to on your phone,” Carey said, adding, “Imagine Siri becoming something easier to use if you do.” “It will understand you better when you stutter and stumble over commands,” she explained.

Not all devices with iOS 18.1 have Apple Intelligence

Although Apple Intelligence is available through the iOS 18.1 update, not everyone who downloads the latest software has access to the new technology, as Tom's Guide notes. That's because Apple Intelligence is only compatible with some iPhone, iPad and Mac devices, particularly those equipped with newer Apple Pro chips, including iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad with A17 Pro or M1 and later, according to Apple.

Additionally, both the device and Siri language must be set to US English to access Apple Intelligence.

Big changes to the Photos app

Some of the most noticeable new AI-powered tools coming with iOS 18.1 relate to Apple's Photos app. A “Clean Up” tool allows photographers to remove distracting or unwanted objects from photos with just one tap. The app also features new natural language search features that make it easier for users to quickly find and organize old photos.

Hearing aids

The new software update also enables Apple's AirPods Pro are intended to function as hearing aids. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last month approved Hearing Aid Feature (HAF), the first FDA-approved, over-the-counter hearing aid software.

The new HAF is intended for the estimated 30 million Americans who suffer from mild to moderate hearing loss due to “aging, exposure to loud noises, certain medical conditions and other factors,” according to the FDA.