Apple's AI features on by default in iOS 18.3 - but you can opt out

Since its debut, Apple Intelligence has required the extra step of actually turning it on or opting in. But with the next versions of Apple's operating systems, the AI-powered feature will be enabled by default.

Enabled automatically for new and upgrading users

The release notes for iOS/iPadOS 18.3 and MacOS 15.3 state that Apple Intelligence will be enabled automatically for new and upgrading users, giving them immediate access to its AI-powered capabilities. Anyone who doesn't want to use the AI will have to manually turn it off.

Also: I bought an iPhone 16 for its AI features, but I haven't used them even once - here's why

Currently accessible as release candidates, iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and MacOS 15.3 are likely to launch within the next week or so. All three versions have been in beta testing since mid-December, giving developers more than a month to evaluate them for new features and fixes.

Eligible devices that can run Apple Intelligence

Only eligible devices can take advantage of Apple Intelligence. These include any iPhone 16, the iPhone 15 Pro, the iPhone 15 Pro Max, any iPad Pro or iPad Air with an M1 chip or later, the iPad mini with the A17 Pro chip, and Macs with an M1 chip or later.

Also: What is Apple Intelligence? Everything to know

Apple Intelligence now chews up around 7GB of storage, up from 4GB initially. Turning off the technology doesn't automatically recover that space, at least not right away. But if you don't plan to use the AI at all, you can certainly disable it. To do so, just go to Settings, select Apple Intelligence & Siri, and then turn off the switch for Apple Intelligence.

What to expect in future updates

But wait, there's more in store with the upcoming new releases. Following issues with AI-generated summaries, Apple will more clearly indicate when a summary has been created by AI and temporarily pause notification summaries for news items.

Also: Why you shouldn't buy the iPhone 16 for Apple Intelligence

With macOS 15.3, Apple is adding Genmoji to the Mac, so you can create your own custom Genmoji based on text descriptions and people from your photo library. Plus, Apple has fixed a bug that prevented you from generating a Genmoji without selecting a different person from your library.

Otherwise, the new versions will likely be relatively minor updates. More significant changes and improvements are expected with iOS/iPadOS 18.4 and MacOS 15.4 sometime in the spring, possibly late March. Those will reportedly enhance Siri by adding on-screen awareness and integration with third-party apps.