Apple Intelligence Becomes Opt-Out in iOS 18.3

Previously, Apple’s suite of AI features required users to opt in during installations of iOS versions 18.1 and 18.2. Users were prompted to decide whether they'd like to enable these advanced AI functionalities, providing them with a choice to activate them.

However, with the forthcoming iOS 18.3, the approach will shift dramatically. According to the newly released beta notes from Apple, iOS 18.3, along with its counterparts iPadOS 18.3 and macOS 15.3, will activate Apple Intelligence by default during device setup. New users and those upgrading will find these features already turned on after they complete their device onboarding.

How to Disable Apple Intelligence

For users who wish to opt out of Apple Intelligence, the process is straightforward. Navigate to the "Apple Intelligence & Siri Settings" on your device, where you can toggle off the Apple Intelligence option. It’s vital to note, though, that this automatic activation marks a significant change in user privacy choices, pushing users to be proactive about their settings.

Context of This Change

This decision follows several months of public availability for Apple Intelligence features, which many users might have already opted into voluntarily. Nevertheless, this move to automatic activation raises several questions. For instance, what happens to those users who previously opted out of the service? Will iOS 18.3 revert those settings back to enabled? Apple has yet to clarify this aspect, leaving users in suspense about the fate of their previously disabled features.

Although iOS 18.3 isn’t expected to bring an overwhelming array of new features, it does include modifications to the AI-driven notification summaries—one of the more controversial elements of Apple’s AI portfolio.

Why Now?

Apple appears confident that after a few months of public feedback on Apple Intelligence, the timing is right to make these AI capabilities default. The company seems to believe that the enhancements made in this update will provide users with a more streamlined and beneficial experience.

Stay tuned for the impending release and prepare to navigate these new settings. What are your thoughts on this opt-out feature? Will it lead to greater user benefit or privacy concerns? Share your views!