2024 Apple recently caused another stir by announcing the official release of iOS 18.1. this release not only marks a further enhancement to the iOS ecosystem, but also brings exciting Apple Intelligence (Apple Intelligence AI) features to users overseas. What unique features will be added with this update? How will they change the user experience? Let’s take a deeper look at all the aspects of this update.
Apple Intelligence: a new era of smart writing and Siri
The introduction of Apple Intelligence as part of iOS 18.1 represents a major step forward for Apple in the field of artificial intelligence. This feature includes new writing tools, major changes to Siri, summary generation, and smart replies, among other features designed to enhance users’ communication and content creation. Users will be able to enjoy a more personalised and convenient intelligent assistant service, further strengthening Apple’s competitiveness in the AI field.
However, it should be noted that the Apple Intelligence experience is limited to overseas versions of the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, and M-series chip Macs and iPads. at this time, iPhones and other devices logged in with a national account in mainland China do not yet support this feature. This is something that will undoubtedly spark a discussion among users about Apple’s globalisation policy and the unequal experience between different markets.
AirPods Pro 2’s “clinical-grade” hearing aid feature
Meanwhile, iOS 18.1 also introduces the much-anticipated ‘clinical grade’ hearing aid feature for the AirPods Pro 2 headphones. First revealed at Apple’s launch event in September this year, the AirPods Pro 2 not only offers a hearing protection mode that allows users to enjoy clear sound quality in noisy environments, but also allows for fine-tuning of individual hearing conditions thanks to its innovative technology.
Before enabling this feature, users need to take a short hearing test using AirPods and iPhone. If a hearing loss is detected, a ‘personalised sound profile’ is automatically created to dynamically adjust volume and frequency so that sensitive ears can enjoy more detail in music, movies, games and phone calls.
Why is this update so important?
With the rapid advancement of new technology, users are no longer limited to simple communication and entertainment on their devices. They desire devices that understand and are more relevant to their life needs. Apple’s introduction of Apple Intelligence and the AirPods Pro 2’s hearing aid feature actually responds to this market demand.
Especially at a time of increasing digitisation and intelligence, it has become a trend to have a device that adapts to the individual needs of the user. This not only creates greater convenience for users, but also increases user loyalty and brand appeal.
Apple’s global strategy: differences between the world and Chinese markets
Apple has long been known for its strong technological innovation in the international market. Although China is an important market for it, Apple has always been cautious and restrained when launching new features in the domestic market. The failure of Apple Intelligence to be available for China-bound devices this time reflects the complex challenge of having to balance the needs of different markets in Apple’s globalisation process.
This strategy is not just a business consideration, there are also cultural, legal and policy differences behind it. In the fast-paced consumer market, user experience has become the key to brand competition. Such a decision may disappoint some users, but in the long run, Apple may prefer to find an optimal solution between product quality and market demand.
User experience and future prospects
For the majority of users, iOS 18.1 and its new features are undoubtedly worth looking forward to. Whether it’s the upcoming debut of Apple Intelligence or the revolutionary AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid feature, it’s all a sign of the deep integration of technology and human daily life. This will not only change the way we access information, but will also affect how we interact with the world around us.
In the days to come, an ever-richer array of features will continue to push the boundaries of Apple’s leadership in the global technology arena. In the face of fierce competition in the market, how Apple can meet users’ needs while maintaining a high-quality product experience will be a constant focus of attention. Users look forward to future updates that will bring a more intimate experience and allow technology to truly serve human life.
Conclusion
The arrival of iOS 18.1 signals Apple’s continued breakthrough in the field of intelligent technology. In this battle of technology and innovation, how will Apple Intelligence and AirPods Pro 2 shape our future? It’s all worth waiting and watching patiently. If you’re an Apple user, you won’t want to miss the new experience this update brings!
