Judging from the information currently exposed, the biggest change in iOS18 should be AI. To be honest, it's a bit late for Apple to introduce AI this year, but fortunately, Apple devices have a huge user base, so popularizing new features will be faster than competitors. However, regarding AI in the new system, Apple has imposed restrictions, limiting support to only iPhone 15 Pro series and subsequent models. Although many Apple fans had anticipated this, confirmation in the latest code undoubtedly left them feeling a bit down.

According to the iOS18.1 code leaked by developers, the ChatGPT-based AI cannot be used on mainland China devices, which comes as no surprise due to well-known reasons. Surprisingly, even AI built on Apple Intelligence is also unavailable on mainland China iPhones, which is regrettable. However, from another perspective, users need not feel too sorry as they are not alone in this situation.

The iOS18.1 code also reveals that Apple Intelligence is unavailable in the EU. While Tim Cook previously stated that Apple Intelligence would be deployed and enabled in other countries outside the US as soon as possible, due to special circumstances, its launch in China may be delayed. Users should not be overly optimistic about the timeline. Nevertheless, with the system already out, there will be a vacuum period before official launch, during which domestic vendors providing AI services may become a viable option.

Of course, there's no reason to criticize Apple for this. AI technology involves many aspects, and user behavior with AI is uncontrollable. If a balance cannot be struck among various factors, no AI will be easily introduced. Additionally, domestic vendors' AI development is rapid. If Apple AI cannot adapt to local conditions, cooperation with domestic vendors becomes necessary. However, Cook has stated that Apple AI will be launched, suggesting that future mainland China iPhones will likely support both Apple AI and AI provided by domestic vendors.

Many may have differing opinions on this matter, but personally, I believe there's no need for concern. It's normal for foreign vendors to comply with domestic regulatory requirements before launching products. Some things cannot be arbitrarily changed by Apple, whether in China or abroad. The EU forced Apple to switch from Lightning to USB-C, and domestic vendors must also make changes to sell products abroad.

Frankly, based on recent user experiences with Apple Intelligence in the US, the experience has not been great, and Apple needs to improve in many areas. Domestic vendors' AI technology is not inferior, and the user experience is actually quite good. There's no need to be overly obsessed with foreign vendors' AI. Domestic vendors' AI models are diverse, offering Apple ample cooperation options. Let's put aside unrealistic fantasies.

But let's be real, when AI finally arrives, will iPhone users here actually use it often?