Apple Intelligence Debuts With Limited Features Amidst iPhone Sales Slump
After watching from the sidelines for nearly two years, Apple has finally unveiled its first wave of Apple Intelligence features. While the initial rollout is limited, it signifies Apple’s efforts to catch up with AI leaders like Google, Microsoft, and Meta — but analysts caution that it may not be enough.
- This rollout includes writing tools, a more conversational Siri, and call transcription features, but it’s currently only for American English users with iPhone 15 or 16 Pro models running iOS 18.1.
- A “much more impactful” update is expected in December, introducing ChatGPT integration, Genmoji creation, and a “visual intelligence experience” that will turn the iPhone camera into a real-time information tool.
The early verdict: Despite Apple’s attempts to rejuvenate its ecosystem and sales, analysts believe its “optimistic expectation may not materialize in the short term.” Meanwhile, CFRA analyst Angelo Zino is waiting for “word of mouth to trickle through … over the next couple of quarters,” as iPhone sales have plunged 12% year-over-year. Amid this delayed and seemingly underwhelming launch, it appears Apple’s “Think Different” motto has evolved into “Think Later” — and loyal customers might just think twice before upgrading.
