With iOS 18.4, Apple introduces a new dimension of interaction to the iPhone – and the best part: getting started is easier than you think. Whether it’s identifying plants, analysing a business front, or answering quick questions about everyday objects – Visual Intelligence is ready to deliver accurate insights in seconds.

Smart Control at Your Fingertip – Using the Action Button

Since the iPhone 15 Pro, a new Action Button has replaced the classic mute switch on the left side of the device. This button is fully customisable – and can be set up for instant access to Visual Intelligence.

Here’s how to assign Visual Intelligence to the Action Button:

  1. Open Settings and tap on Action Button.

  2. Swipe through the available options until you find Visual Intelligence – it’s highlighted in yellow.

  3. Tap Settings again to exit the menu.

  4. Done! A single press of the button now launches Visual Intelligence instantly.

Note: This feature is available exclusively on the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 models. The standard iPhone 15 does not support Apple Intelligence.

Even Faster: Activate Visual Intelligence via Control Center

For those who prefer swiping over pressing: Apple has also integrated Visual Intelligence directly into the Control Center. Simply swipe down from the top right corner of the screen – then tap the new icon featuring the flower-like Apple logo with four corners.

One tap – and you’re right in.

Point the Camera – and You’re Good to Go

Now for the exciting part: simply point your camera at any object.
Whether it’s a plant, animal, sticky note, or shop window – Visual Intelligence recognises what it’s looking at and suggests relevant actions.

You’ll always have two options available:

1. Ask:
Chat with ChatGPT about what you’re seeing – get explanations, background info, or fun facts in real time.

2. Search:
Start a visual web search – similar to a smart Google Image search, but faster and more intuitive.

With just a few taps, your iPhone becomes your personal knowledge assistant. Simply open the camera, focus on an object, and discover more – it’s that intuitive.

Curious? Then give it a try now!