New features of the iOS 18.1 update for iPhones beyond Apple Intelligence

iPhone users can now transcribe and record calls and use AirPods Pro 2 hearing features.

On Monday, Apple released its first batch of Apple Intelligence features, available via the iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and MacOS Sequoia 15.1 updates. These include writing tools, notification summaries, slightly improved Sir, and several more updates.

However, a significant portion of users can not yet try them out, as Apple Intelligence is available only on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, any model 16 iPhones, iPads with A17 Pro chip, as well as Macs and iPads with custom Apple M-series chips.

In addition, Apple Intelligence is currently restricted to the US, leaving European, Australian, and many other users to wait.

Even if you don’t have an AI-capable iPhone or live outside the US, it is still worth downloading the iOS 18.1 update, as it brings several enhancements beyond Apple Intelligence.

You can read about all the latest Apple Intelligence features here.

Call recording and transcription

Prior to the iOS 18.1 update, those who wanted to record audio calls with their phone had to use third-party apps. The latest iOS app now allows users to record calls via the Phone app as well as Facetime audio calls.

While on a call using the Phone app, participants are automatically notified when a recording is initiated. After the conversation, the recorded calls can be found in the Notes App and can be transcribed.

Currently, transcription for call recording is available in US and Australian English, US and Mexico Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, and Cantonese (Hong Kong). However, an iPhone‌ 12 or later model is needed to access these features.

AirPods Pro 2 hearing features

Those who have AirPods Pro 2 may be pleased to know that the recent update enables an FDA-approved hearing aid feature, which can help users with mild and moderate hearing loss.

It works by increasing sounds, like voices, while diminishing surrounding noises. The software adjusts the level of sound automatically, according to the results available after a user takes a hearing test.

In order to use it, AirPods Pro 2 has to be updated with the latest firmware.

Other improvements

With the release of iOS 18, Apple introduced previously unseen customization levels on iPhones, including options to customize the Control Center. The latest update, iOS 18.1, is expanding this feature, allowing users to add connectivity controls individually and reset configuration.

There are a few more changes, including support for natural language search in the App Store, a quick switch to the front TrueDepth Camera (only for iPhone 16), and Spatial photo capture (for iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max).

Bug fixes

The latest iOS update also brings several bug fixes.

Previously, iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro users witnessed their device unexpectedly restart. Some users also reported issues with digital car keys, recording videos at 4K 60, and a few more bugs.

According to Apple, all of these issues should’ve been solved after installing the iOS 18.1 update.