Are Apple's latest software updates overriding user choice? Reports suggest that Apple Intelligence, the tech giant's AI feature set, is being re-enabled on some devices even after users explicitly disabled it.
Apple recently released macOS Sequoia 15.3.1 and iOS/iPadOS 18.3.1, point releases containing important security fixes. However, these updates seem to be doing more than just patching vulnerabilities. Users are reporting that Apple Intelligence, a feature that utilizes up to 7GB of storage space per device for local AI processing, is being automatically re-enabled after the update, even if it was previously turned off.
This issue appears to be particularly prevalent on devices that display a "Welcome" screen after updating, such as some Mac models. This screen introduces Apple Intelligence features, but unlike typical setup screens, it lacks a "Set Up Later" option, essentially forcing users to enable the feature
MacRumors conducted tests on various devices, including an M4 Pro Mac mini, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro, and M4 iPad Pro. While the iPhones and iPad retained their disabled Apple Intelligence setting after the update, the Mac mini automatically re-enabled the feature.
This behavior raises concerns about user choice and control over their devices, especially considering the significant storage space Apple Intelligence requires. Apple's decision to make Apple Intelligence an opt-out feature in previous updates was already controversial, and this latest development further fuels the debate around user privacy and Apple's approach to AI features.
What can you do?
If you've updated your devices to macOS Sequoia 15.3.1 or iOS/iPadOS 18.3.1, it's crucial to check your Apple Intelligence settings.
On iPhone and iPad: Go to Settings → Apple Intelligence & Siri and ensure the toggle is off.
On Mac: Navigate to System Settings → Apple Intelligence & Siri and verify the toggle is disabled.
This situation highlights the importance of staying vigilant about software updates and their potential impact on user settings and privacy.
Have you encountered this issue with the latest Apple updates? Share your experience in the comments below.
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