Apple Intelligence is compatible with the iPhone 15 Pro and newer models, but an exclusive feature called Visual Intelligence is available only on the iPhone 16 series. There was a belief that the absence of Camera Control on the iPhone 15 Pro was the reason for this limitation. However, with the introduction of the iPhone 16e – capable of utilizing Visual Intelligence – Apple has now announced that this feature will also come to iPhone 15 Pro users.
Apple Announces Visual Intelligence Coming to iPhone 15 Pro
An Apple representative informed Daring Fireball’s John Gruber (through MacMagazine) that a forthcoming iOS update will unlock Visual Intelligence on iPhone 15 Pro devices via the Action Button, similar to the recently introduced iPhone 16e. While a specific timeline has not been provided, it’s anticipated that this feature will be incorporated in iOS 18.4.
For those who are not aware, Visual Intelligence is a component of Apple Intelligence, allowing users to leverage the camera for insights about their surroundings, including identifying locations and objects. The technology can also recognize text, offering translations, summaries, or reading them aloud, leveraging AI capabilities. Additionally, Visual Intelligence allows users to broaden their inquiries by sourcing information from Google or ChatGPT.
On iPhone 16 models, Visual Intelligence is activated by holding down Camera Control. For iPhone 16e users, access can be made through the Action Button or a new toggle in the Control Center, a functionality that will also extend to iPhone 15 Pro with the upcoming software update.
DMN had previously reported that Apple has been investigating this new method for activating Visual Intelligence since the iOS 18.3 beta release.
Apple is anticipated to unveil the first beta of iOS 18.4 shortly. This update is expected to not only roll out Visual Intelligence functionality but also extend Apple Intelligence support to additional languages for the first time. However, recent speculations suggest that the more advanced Siri with Onscreen Awareness might be delayed due to technical difficulties.
Are you looking forward to having Visual Intelligence on the iPhone 15 Pro? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
