Apple to Bring Google Lens-Like ‘Visual Intelligence’ to iPhone 15 Pro with iOS 18.4 Update

Apple is set to introduce Visual Intelligence to the iPhone 15 Pro through an upcoming software update. The feature, similar to Google Lens, allows users to scan objects with their camera for instant information. Originally launched with the iPhone 16 series, it will now be accessible via the Action Button and Control Center on the iPhone 15 Pro. Visual Intelligence can identify objects, landmarks, plants, animals, and even provide real-time translations. It may also offer shopping recommendations and text extraction features. While Apple hasn’t confirmed the exact update, iOS 18.4 is expected to introduce it. The update is likely to release publicly in early April 2025.

CONTENTS:

• First Introduced with the iPhone 16 Series
• How It Works
• Accessing Visual Intelligence on the iPhone 15 Pro
• Expected Release and Availability

Apple to Bring Google Lens-Like ‘Visual Intelligence’ to iPhone 15 Pro with iOS 18.4 Update

Apple is set to bring its Visual Intelligence feature to the iPhone 15 Pro through an upcoming software update. The company confirmed this to John Gruber of Daring Fireball, explaining that Visual Intelligence, Apple’s answer to Google Lens, will allow users to scan objects with their camera and receive instant information about them. This enhancement is part of Apple’s broader push to integrate AI-powered capabilities into its ecosystem.

First Introduced with the iPhone 16 Series

Apple originally introduced Visual Intelligence with the iPhone 16 lineup, which debuted in September 2024. The feature was showcased as a built-in AI tool accessible through the Camera Control button. Its primary function is to help users quickly identify objects, landmarks, plants, animals, and even text by simply pointing their iPhone camera at them. The feature is designed to enhance real-world interactions by offering seamless access to relevant data, making it useful for travelers, students, and professionals alike.

Apple’s move to bring this feature to the iPhone 15 Pro suggests the company is extending some of its newer AI-powered capabilities to slightly older devices. While Visual Intelligence remains exclusive to the Pro models for now, Apple may consider rolling it out to other devices in the future, depending on hardware capabilities.

How It Works

Visual Intelligence functions similarly to Google Lens, leveraging Apple’s advanced AI and machine learning algorithms. When a user points their iPhone camera at an object, the system analyzes the scene and provides contextual information. For instance, if a user scans a famous landmark, the feature may display historical facts, reviews, and nearby attractions. Similarly, scanning a plant could reveal its species, care instructions, and possible medicinal uses.

Beyond object recognition, Visual Intelligence is expected to assist with real-time translation, text extraction, and shopping recommendations. Users may be able to scan a product and receive details about where to buy it, price comparisons, and user reviews. These capabilities position Visual Intelligence as a powerful tool for enhancing both productivity and everyday convenience.

Accessing Visual Intelligence on the iPhone 15 Pro

On the iPhone 15 Pro, Visual Intelligence will be accessible via the Action Button, a customizable hardware button located on the side of the device. Users will have the option to assign Visual Intelligence to this button, allowing for quick activation. Additionally, the feature will be available through the Control Center, which can be accessed by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen.

By integrating Visual Intelligence into these easily accessible areas, Apple ensures a seamless user experience, allowing quick access to real-time insights without the need to open a separate app.

Expected Release and Availability

While Apple has not specified the exact software update that will bring Visual Intelligence to the iPhone 15 Pro, Gruber speculates it could arrive with iOS 18.4. This update is expected to enter developer beta soon, with a public release likely in early April 2025.

Apple’s gradual rollout of AI-powered tools like Visual Intelligence reflects the company’s cautious yet strategic approach to integrating artificial intelligence into its ecosystem. As AI-driven features become more prevalent, Apple is likely to continue refining Visual Intelligence with future updates, making it an even more valuable tool for users worldwide.