iOS 18.4 release: Apple Intelligence starts in Germany
Apple's latest system versions are available for download. The updates for iOS, iPadOS and macOS bring Apple Intelligence to the EU – also in German.
(Image: nikkimeel/Shutterstock.com)
Big update round for users of Apple operating systems: A little earlier than announced, the manufacturer released the next major updates to the general public on Monday evening. iOS and iPadOS 18.4 unlock Apple Intelligence on supported iPhones and iPads in the EU, while also significantly expanding language support. In addition to English, Apple AI now works in German, Italian, French and Spanish, among others. Mac users no longer have to run the operating system for Apple Intelligence in English.
ChatGPT integration and more standard apps
The update provides several AI functions for text and photo editing as well as rudimentary image generation tools. Apple Intelligence also includes advanced system functions such as summarizing and prioritizing messages and emails. "Visual Intelligence" is designed to provide information and functions relating to the physical environment captured by the iPhone camera. Another new feature is the option to address ChatGPT directly from the system, for example via the Siri user interface.
With iOS / iPadOS 18.4 and macOS 15.4, Apple is also providing additional functions, including automatic categorization of emails in Apple Mail, which is now also available in German – as well as on iPads and Macs. There are also advanced options for defining default apps on iPhones and iPads. Important third-party apps now take this into account: Accordingly, WhatsApp can now be set as the default app for messages and calls for the first time, as well as Google Maps for navigation. Other providers are likely to follow. A default navigation app can only be set up on devices of users in EU member states, so Switzerland is not included here.
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Minor improvements and further updates
The updates also bring a number of smaller innovations and improvements, including support for controlling Matter-compatible vacuum robots via Apple Home. Another new feature is "ambient music", which can be activated via the Control Center – with playlists for focusing or relaxing, for example. You can find tips on the new features in iOS 18.4 and macOS 15.4 in a practical article on heise+.
The updates are also likely to fix security vulnerabilities; Apple is expected to announce details later this evening. In addition to iOS / iPadOS 18.4 and macOS 15.4, Apple has also released watchOS 11.4, tvOS 18.4 and visionOS 2.4, the latter of which now also includes Apple Intelligence.
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