Apple is set to switch on its intelligence features by default starting from iOS 18.3, iPadOS 18.3, and macOS 15.3. These updated operating systems will enable AI-powered features automatically for new users or those upgrading to the latest versions. Devices that support Apple Intelligence include iPhone 15 Pro models and later, iPads with the M1 chip or later, and the recent iPad mini.
When setting up a device running macOS 18.3, Apple Intelligence is enabled during Mac onboarding, allowing users access to AI features after setup. However, users can disable Apple Intelligence by navigating to the ‘Apple Intelligence & Siri Settings’ pane and turning off the toggle.
Notably, iOS 18.3 beta testers discovered an update that pauses AI notification summaries for news apps if they inaccurately summarize headlines. Apple will also make it easier to identify notification summaries on the iPhone’s lock screen, noting potential errors in these summaries.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/21/24348850/apple-intelligence-ai-default-setting-ios-18-3