iOS 18, the latest iPhone update, is packed with exciting features, from customizable home screens to enhanced iMessage capabilities. But amidst the excitement, a concerning trend emerges. Apple’s long-awaited AI features, collectively known as Apple Intelligence, are only accessible on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, creating a two-tiered system for iPhone users. This unprecedented move raises questions about the future of iOS updates and the accessibility of key features.
While Apple has historically limited some features in older iPhones due to hardware limitations, iOS 18 marks a shift. This time, the exclusion affects major features, particularly the AI enhancements. This isn’t the first instance of feature limitations in iOS updates, but previous exclusions have typically involved minor features or older iPhones. The fact that Apple Intelligence, a significant update, is limited to the two most expensive iPhone models sets a worrying precedent.
The exclusivity of these AI features raises questions about future updates. Will the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus also be excluded from accessing these features? Could Apple continue this trend, offering new features only on its top-tier models? While these concerns might seem premature, Apple has created a situation where they are unavoidable.
Even if hardware constraints prevent Apple Intelligence from functioning on older iPhones, the perception remains negative. It creates an uneasy feeling, leaving users wondering if this is a temporary measure or the beginning of a new era where only the most expensive iPhones receive the most significant updates. This unprecedented situation raises concerns about the future of iPhone updates and their accessibility for all users.
While Apple may argue that these limitations are necessary due to hardware restrictions, the perception of a two-tiered system remains. The question remains: Is this a temporary transitional period or the start of a new era where exclusivity dictates the future of iOS updates?
