How Apple Intelligence can transform our daily digital lives

Apple’s long-awaited foray into generative AI finally, after a long wait, got a name – Apple Intelligence, early last year. And true to its style, Apple didn’t just jump on the AI bandwagon, it took a shot at redefining the experience with privacy-first, on-device intelligence that feels sleek, thoughtful, and yes, very Apple.

So, what does Apple Intelligence actually bring to the table? How will it change the way we use our iPhones? And more importantly, is this Apple’s next big play to boost its presence in the Indian market? Let’s unbox Apple Intelligence.

What is Apple Intelligence?

Think of Apple Intelligence as the brand’s take on AI that’s meant to blend into the background. No chatbots, no gimmicks. Just smarter, more context-aware features built right into your apps. We’re talking: 

Siri that actually remembers what you said five seconds ago. With contextual awareness and access across apps, Siri becomes less of a novelty and more of a true assistant. 

Summarised emails, smarter notifications, and better writing tools. Notes, Mail, and even third-party apps get a boost with tools like auto-summarisation, tone rewriting, and predictive text – all running locally thanks to Apple Silicon. 

Photo magic, the Apple way. You can search for “pictures with mom during Holi 2023” or clean up distractions in images without needing third-party apps.  

In other words, Apple Intelligence isn’t trying to blow your mind. It’s trying to make your iPhone…work better and smarter.

Who can use Apple Intelligence?

Here’s where things get a little sticky. Apple Intelligence is only coming to devices with Apple Silicon – which means the iPhone 15 Pro and above. In a country, where a large chunk of users continues to use iPhones like the XR, 11, and 12, this limitation is a big deal.

ALSO READ: Apple Intelligence: Find out if your Apple device is eligible

So, while Apple Intelligence is technically here, for most Indian users, it’s more of a sneak peek than a feature drop. That’s not ideal in a market where people hold onto their phones for 3-4 years.

India’s AI expectations vs Apple’s approach

Android phones – even mid-range ones – are already packing serious AI chops. Samsung’s Galaxy AI is available across multiple models. Google’s Pixel phones use AI to practically run the camera. Even budget brands like OnePlus, Vivo, and iQOO are pushing AI editing and voice tools.

Apple’s strength isn’t being first – it’s being trusted. Indian consumers care deeply about privacy, especially as digital payments and health data become more common. Apple’s on-device AI strategy could end up being a sleeper hit for those who want smart features without sacrificing data security.

So what’s next?

For now, Apple Intelligence in India is a premium feature for premium users. But it’s laying the groundwork for something bigger. If Apple rolls out wider language support (Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, and more), integrates India-specific use cases (like IRCTC tickets or UPI reminders), and brings AI to rather ‘old’ models, even in a limited capacity, it could unlock a whole new level of user engagement.

ALSO READ: WWDC 2025 is Apple’s chance to redeem itself in the AI race

Until then, it’s clear that Apple Intelligence isn’t just about smart tech, it’s about Apple’s smart strategy to work with AI and hang it like a distant fruit for the consumers. And in a price-sensitive, privacy-conscious, and digitally accelerating market like India, that strategy might just pay off.