By MICHAEL LIEDTKE

Apple is set to enhance the iPhone experience with a *free software update*, introducing its first dose of *artificial intelligence* to the iPhone 16 lineup. This move aims to align with the growing trend in AI technology and improve the capabilities of the device.

The upgrade to the *iOS 18 operating system* will be available on Monday, arriving shortly after the release of the *iPhone 16 models*, which were launched at prices between $800 to $1,200. Additionally, last year’s premium models, the *iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max*, are also eligible for the AI-enhanced features post-update.

While this upgrade is currently limited to the United States, *international users* will have to wait until next year for availability, with specific dates still under consideration. Apple has spent recent weeks testing the new AI software among a selected group of iPhone owners to optimize its performance.

The primary feature being introduced is aimed at transforming *Siri*, Apple’s virtual assistant, into a more conversational and capable tool. Users will also notice a glowing light *encircling the iPhone’s screen* while requests are processed, enhancing the interactive experience.

Users can expect new functionalities that include *writing and proofreading assistance*, email summarization, and an array of photo editing tools. Furthermore, future updates are set to introduce exciting features such as customizable emojis and potential collaboration with OpenAI’s *ChatGPT* for advanced assistance.

Apple’s initiative to incorporate AI is also a bid to distinguish itself in a landscape already populated by AI offerings from *Android competitors*, including *Samsung* and *Google*.

To position its AI capabilities uniquely, Apple is branding this new suite of features as *“Apple Intelligence,”* emphasizing its commitment to privacy by ensuring that data processing occurs on the device or within secure data centers.

The launch of these features comes at a strategic time, with Apple’s stock price witnessing an upward surge, as demand for the new models is anticipated to increase, especially during the upcoming holiday season. Analysts predict that these features could drive substantial sales and contribute to Apple’s valuation growth.

Looking ahead, Apple is expected to share quarterly financial insights, reflecting user engagement with the new iPhone 16 models and the AI features.

In addition to the iPhone enhancements, Apple announced that select AirPods can now function as *hearing aids*, benefitting those with hearing impairments, which affects approximately 30 million Americans.