The release of iOS 18.2 marks a significant leap forward for Apple Intelligence, introducing several long-awaited features such as Genmoji and Image Playground. Among the highlights is Visual Intelligence, a powerful tool exclusively available for the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, first teased at Apple’s September event. Let’s dive into how this exciting feature works and what it offers.
What Is Visual Intelligence?
Visual Intelligence is Apple’s innovative take on Google Lens, designed to harness the power of AI and the advanced iPhone camera system to analyze images in real time. This feature helps users explore the world around them in smarter ways, including:
- Learning more about objects, businesses, and locations.
- Translating written text or summarizing it for quick understanding.
- Shopping for items by identifying them and offering related details.
- Reading text aloud for accessibility.
- Seamlessly integrating with tools like Google Image Search and ChatGPT.
Whether you’re navigating a foreign city, searching for product information, or just curious about the world around you, Visual Intelligence offers an array of tools to enrich your experience.
The Catch: Caveats to Keep in Mind
While Visual Intelligence is a game-changer, it isn’t without limitations.
Device Restriction: For now, Visual Intelligence is limited to the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, Apple’s most powerful devices. However, Apple has hinted at expanding compatibility to older iPhone models in the future.
Waitlist System: All Apple Intelligence features, including Visual Intelligence, require joining a waitlist. To sign up, go to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri, then tap “Join Waitlist.” Once approved, the feature will activate on your device.
Getting Started with Visual Intelligence
Currently, Visual Intelligence is accessed by long-pressing the Camera Control button on the bottom-right corner of the iPhone 16 Pro’s screen. This opens the Visual Intelligence interface, where the real magic begins.
Using Visual Intelligence to Explore the World
Point your camera at an object, business, or text, and Visual Intelligence will spring into action. Options include:
ChatGPT Integration: Tap the ChatGPT icon on the bottom left for detailed information or to ask follow-up questions.
Google Image Search: Tap the bottom right icon to perform a visual search for similar images and related information.
Text Recognition: When text is detected, tap the circle at the bottom of the screen for options like translation, text-to-speech, or summarization.
Interacting with Text
Hover your camera over text, activate Visual Intelligence, and tap the circle to analyze it. From there, you can:
- Translate the text into another language.
- Read Aloud the text with Siri’s voice for accessibility.
- Summarize the content for quick insights.
If the text includes actionable details, such as phone numbers, email addresses, or websites, Visual Intelligence can help you:
- Call phone numbers with a tap.
- Compose emails or create calendar events.
- Visit websites directly from the interface.
Tap “More” for additional options, and swipe up or tap “Close” to exit the session.
Interacting with Businesses
Visual Intelligence can provide instant information about businesses you encounter. Simply point your camera at a business sign and:
- View hours of operation by tapping “Schedule.”
- Place orders or browse the menu by selecting “Order” or “Menu.”
- Make reservations directly from the interface.
- Call the business or read reviews by tapping “More.”
This feature is currently exclusive to U.S. customers, with plans to expand globally.
Shopping and Beyond: ChatGPT Integration
Visual Intelligence’s integration with ChatGPT is a standout feature. Point your camera at an object, tap the ChatGPT icon, and hit “Ask” for detailed information.
For example, when we scanned a bottle of hand cream, ChatGPT correctly identified the product. Follow-up questions about where to buy it and how much it costs were handled with ease. This makes Visual Intelligence an excellent tool for shopping and discovery.
Finding Deals with Google Image Search
Visual Intelligence also integrates with Google Image Search. This feature is perfect for bargain hunters. Snap a photo of an item, and Safari will display similar images along with price points from various retailers. While the tool won’t make the purchase for you, it’s an invaluable starting point for comparison shopping.
Final Thoughts
Visual Intelligence is Apple’s bold move into the realm of AI-powered image analysis, offering a blend of utility and innovation that sets it apart from its competitors. While it’s currently limited to the latest iPhones and requires a waitlist, the potential for future expansion is promising.
Whether you’re exploring new places, shopping smarter, or simply curious about your surroundings, Visual Intelligence adds an extra layer of intelligence to your everyday life. With iOS 18.2 and beyond, Apple is paving the way for a smarter, more connected world.
