Apple Expands Visual Intelligence to iPhone 15 Pro Models with iOS 18.4 Beta

Apple Expands Visual Intelligence to Older iPhone Models

Apple's latest iOS 18.4 beta 2 update brings a significant AI feature, Visual Intelligence, to iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models. This expansion marks a notable shift in Apple's AI strategy, extending advanced capabilities to devices beyond the latest iPhone 16 lineup 1

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What is Visual Intelligence?

Visual Intelligence is Apple's answer to Google Lens, allowing users to gather information and perform actions based on what they point their phone's camera at. This AI-powered feature can identify objects, plants, animals, and even extract information from text in images 1

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New Activation Methods

With the absence of the Camera Control button on older models, Apple has introduced alternative ways to access Visual Intelligence:

1. Action Button: Users can now assign Visual Intelligence to the Action button on compatible devices 2

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2. Control Center: A new tile in the Control Center provides quick access to Visual Intelligence 2

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These methods are available not only for iPhone 15 Pro models but also for the entire iPhone 16 lineup, including the recently introduced iPhone 16e 2

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Capabilities of Visual Intelligence

Visual Intelligence offers a range of functionalities:

• Web searches based on captured images
• Integration with ChatGPT for answering questions about observed objects
• Adding event information to calendars from captured posters or signs
• Identifying plants, animals, and dog breeds
• Extracting contact information and URLs from images 1

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Technical Requirements and Availability

The feature requires sufficient RAM and processing power, which the A17 Pro chip in the iPhone 15 Pro models can provide 3

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. While currently in beta, the official release of iOS 18.4 is expected in early April 2025 3

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Implications for Users and Apple's AI Strategy

This update addresses a disparity where newer, less expensive models had features unavailable on older premium devices. It demonstrates Apple's commitment to expanding AI capabilities across its product line, potentially increasing user engagement with AI features 1

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Future Developments

While Visual Intelligence is expanding to more iPhone models, there's no word yet on support for iPad devices 2

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. The iOS 18.4 update is also expected to introduce other features, such as a new recipe section in Apple News called Apple News+ Food 3

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As Apple continues to develop its AI capabilities, users can expect further enhancements and integrations of Visual Intelligence and other Apple Intelligence features across its ecosystem 4

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