Apple Launches iOS 18.4: Vision Pro Gains Apple Intelligence and EU Expansion

A white iPhone case sitting on top of a table

Apple rolled out its iOS 18.4 update today, introducing Apple Intelligence to the Vision Pro headset and expanding its availability to the European Union (EU) for the first time. The update also includes a few minor improvements to Apple’s AI suite.

Key Feature: Priority Notifications

The standout addition in iOS 18.4 is Priority Notifications, a feature that streamlines the lock screen by surfacing the most urgent notifications. Initially announced during Apple Intelligence’s unveiling in June 2024, this feature is now available for compatible iPhones, iPads, and Macs. A similar tool, designed for email organization, was introduced with iOS 18.1 in October 2024.

New AI-Powered Creative Tools

iOS 18.4 introduces subtle yet creative AI enhancements. A new Sketch style in Image Playground allows users to generate highly detailed and academic sketches. Additionally, macOS Sequoia 15.4—also released today—now lets users create memory movies on Mac by simply typing a description.

Vision Pro Gains Smarter Capabilities

Vision Pro users now have access to Apple Intelligence features on their headset. Accompanying this release is the new Vision Pro app for iPhone, which requires iOS 18.4. This app lets Vision Pro owners queue augmented reality (AR) apps and content for later viewing and provides information about new spatial experiences. Users can also explore tips, discover games, and stay informed about Vision Pro updates.

Gradual Rollout of Apple Intelligence

Apple continues its phased approach to Apple Intelligence deployment, citing the need for thorough testing to prevent potential issues like misleading AI-generated notifications. While this careful rollout ensures stability, it has dampened excitement, as key features—such as Siri’s AI overhaul—remain in development.

Consumer Frustration and Legal Challenges

Apple is facing consumer backlash and legal action over its AI promises, particularly for the iPhone 16. Many users expected a seamless and personalized AI experience that would enhance their devices, but the slow rollout and limited global availability have led to disappointment. Notably, the lack of Apple Intelligence in regions such as China and support for languages beyond English hindered a widespread upgrade cycle during the holiday season.

Expanding Global Availability

With iOS 18.4, Apple Intelligence is now available in the EU and supports a broader range of languages, including French, German, Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and simplified Chinese. It also introduces localized English support for Singapore and India.

Re-Enabling Apple Intelligence by Default

Notably, upgrading to iOS 18.4 reactivates Apple Intelligence, even if it was previously turned off by the user. For those who prefer to disable it or selectively use certain features, Apple provides options to fine-tune AI settings.

While iOS 18.4 brings useful enhancements, the update is not a game-changer, especially for prospective Vision Pro buyers. However, the EU expansion and language support mark a significant step toward making Apple Intelligence more globally accessible.