Apple’s approach to artificial intelligence has always been measured. While tech giants like Google and Microsoft rushed headfirst into the generative AI space, Apple chose to observe, refine, and roll out its AI offering — Apple Intelligence — on its own terms.
That offering is now reaching more users globally. As of March 31, with the release of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4, Apple Intelligence is expanding to more languages, more regions, and even more devices, including the Apple Vision Pro.
But is this expansion meaningful for everyday users — or is Apple still playing it too safe?
What’s New: Language Support and Platform Expansion
The biggest headline from this update is that Apple Intelligence is no longer just for English-speaking users in a few select countries.
New Supported Languages:
- French
- German
- Italian
- Brazilian Portuguese
- Spanish
- Japanese
- Korean
- Simplified Chinese
- Localized English for Singapore and India
This broader language support means that Apple Intelligence is now accessible to users in most regions around the world, with full functionality gradually rolling out over time.
Also significant: For the first time, users in the European Union can access Apple Intelligence features — marking an important milestone in Apple’s global AI rollout.
Key Features: More Than Just a Smarter Siri
This update isn’t just about new languages. Apple is expanding what its AI tools can do across its ecosystem.
Writing Tools
Built into apps across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, Writing Tools can help you rewrite, proofread, or summarize content. The feature feels intuitive and integrated — a useful assistant rather than a distraction.
ChatGPT Integration
In a subtle but significant move, Apple has brought ChatGPT directly into its Writing Tools. Users can opt in to access ChatGPT’s capabilities for more advanced content generation, without leaving the app they’re working in.
Image Playground and Genmoji
These tools allow users to generate custom visuals and emojis using prompts. Apple has also added a new “Sketch” style to Image Playground, useful for creating clean, academic-style illustrations.
Priority Notifications
Apple Intelligence now highlights time-sensitive or relevant notifications to help users cut through the noise and focus on what matters.
Memory Movies on Mac
Users can now generate highlight reels by simply typing a description. It’s an interesting fusion of generative AI and Apple’s Photos app, though its usefulness will depend heavily on the quality of your photo library.
Apple Vision Pro Enters the Chat
Apple Intelligence is now available — in a limited way — on Apple Vision Pro. While the rollout is currently restricted to U.S. English and a smaller set of features, it’s a notable step toward integrating AI into spatial computing.
Features available on Vision Pro include:
- Writing Tools
- ChatGPT-assisted text generation
- Image Playground
- Genmoji
- Text summarization tools
This may not be a game-changer yet, but it points to how Apple envisions AI functioning in immersive environments over time.
Where Apple Gets It Right
Privacy-Centric Design
Apple Intelligence processes most requests on-device, which means user data stays local and secure. When additional computing power is needed, Apple routes data through its Private Cloud Compute — designed to maintain the same strict privacy standards as the iPhone itself.
Seamless Integration
Rather than adding a new app or interface, Apple’s AI quietly enhances existing tools like Mail, Notes, Messages, and more. It’s helpful without being invasive — a smart move for users who aren’t looking to learn a brand-new workflow.
Global Inclusivity
By expanding language and region support, Apple is clearly working to make its AI features more accessible to users beyond its core U.S. market.
Where It Still Falls Short
Feature Limitations by Region and Platform
Not all features are available everywhere just yet. Many of the newer AI capabilities are still restricted to specific devices, regions, or languages. For example, Apple Vision Pro users outside the U.S. will have to wait.
No Unified AI Experience
Unlike Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini, Apple hasn’t introduced a single, conversational interface that ties everything together. Instead, AI is scattered across tools, which may work for some but feel underwhelming for those expecting a more centralized experience.
Less Customization
Apple’s emphasis on privacy and control means users get a more curated, less open-ended AI experience. For users who enjoy experimenting with powerful third-party models or prompts, this might feel limiting.
Should You Care About Apple Intelligence?
If you’re already deep in the Apple ecosystem and value a frictionless, privacy-focused experience, Apple Intelligence is well worth exploring. The tools are practical and helpful, especially for users who deal with writing, messaging, or visual content creation.
However, if you’re looking for maximum creative freedom, power-user features, or a more open-ended AI interface, you might find Apple’s offering a little too restrained for now.
Final Thoughts
Apple Intelligence is slowly but steadily finding its place in a crowded AI market. This latest update — with wider language support and a move into spatial computing — shows Apple is committed to building AI thoughtfully, rather than rushing to check boxes.
For many users, that approach will be a welcome change. For others, it might feel too slow.
Either way, Apple Intelligence is expanding — and how you feel about it will likely depend on what kind of AI experience you’re looking for.
What’s your take? Is Apple’s privacy-first AI approach the right move, or are they playing it too safe?
