Apple recently released the beta for iOS 18.2, and one of its standout features is the integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT into Apple Intelligence.
This update allows users to easily upgrade to ChatGPT Plus right from their Settings, marking a new level of accessibility and integration for AI tools on Apple devices.
The addition brings powerful AI writing and conversational capabilities, which users can access systemwide across iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
ChatGPT Plus Integration with iOS 18.2
In iOS 18.2, Apple introduces ChatGPT as part of its new Apple Intelligence suite, seamlessly integrated into the system for use with Siri and other AI-powered writing tools.
This integration is more than just adding ChatGPT to the iOS ecosystem; it signifies a significant step in Apple’s collaboration with OpenAI.
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Interestingly, reports suggest that no money was exchanged when Apple and OpenAI first partnered on this initiative, but the latest update offers clear mutual benefits.
By embedding a ChatGPT Plus upgrade option in the Settings app, Apple and OpenAI stand to gain from a revenue-sharing model for users who choose to upgrade within iOS 18.2.
To access this feature, users can navigate to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri > ChatGPT. Here, they will find an option labeled “Upgrade to ChatGPT Plus,” allowing for a seamless transition to the premium version.
Benefits of ChatGPT Plus for iPhone Users
For iPhone users, ChatGPT Plus brings several advanced capabilities. Upon upgrading, users gain access to expanded features such as:
- Increased message capacity: ChatGPT Plus subscribers can send five times more messages on GPT-4, enhancing the conversational experience.
- Higher limits on media uploads and generation: This includes larger allowances for photos, file uploads, image generation, and web browsing.
- Advanced voice mode for real-time conversations: ChatGPT’s voice capabilities allow for more natural, interactive conversations, making it feel more like a personal assistant.
The ChatGPT Plus subscription is currently priced at $20 per month (approximately KES 2,580.60). Apple has also made it easy for users on the free plan to see their usage limits within the Settings app.
This visibility makes it simpler to manage ChatGPT usage without exceeding limits and to upgrade if desired.
Potential Expansion with Google Gemini Integration
In addition to the OpenAI collaboration, Apple is reportedly exploring an integration with Google’s AI model, Gemini.
If successful, this partnership might allow users to upgrade to a Gemini Advanced subscription directly within Settings, similar to the ChatGPT Plus model.
Such integrations would diversify AI options on iOS, potentially allowing Apple users to choose between different AI models and capabilities.
Additional AI Features in iOS 18.2
The iOS 18.2 update goes beyond ChatGPT, introducing two other AI-powered features: Visual Intelligence and Genmoji.
Visual Intelligence enhances image processing and recognition capabilities, while Genmoji offers new customizable emoji avatars. These features reflect Apple’s continued investment in AI technologies to enrich user experience.
The full public release of iOS 18.2 is anticipated in the first week of December, and it promises to deliver new levels of AI integration and personalization options for Apple users.
Let us know in the comments what you think about Apple’s move to offer a ChatGPT Plus upgrade directly within iOS 18.2.
