With recent reports of AI accuracy issues and increased storage demands, you might be reconsidering having Apple Intelligence on your device. Whether you're concerned about privacy, noticing slower performance, or prefer a more traditional smartphone experience, opting out won't affect your device's core functionality.
While Apple Intelligence can reduce interruptions for you and is even improving accessibility with Apple's hearing test and the AirPods Pro 2 hearing aid feature, you might prefer keeping your device simple and predictable. Let's face it, AI isn't for everyone.
By disabling Apple Intelligence your iPhone will continue to work just as efficiently — you'll just be using it without AI features running in the background. Remember, this isn't permanent. You can always re-enable Apple Intelligence if you want to try new features in the future. Let's walk through how to turn it off Apple Intelligence on your iPhone.
1. Open Settings
Navigate to your iPhone's Settings menu from your home screen or App Library.
2. Find Apple Intelligence
Scroll down through Settings and tap Apple Intelligence & Siri.
3. Disable the feature
Tap the toggle switch next to Apple Intelligence to turn it off.
4. Confirm your choice
When the confirmation pop-up appears, tap Turn Off Apple Intelligence to confirm your choice.
5. Enjoy your AI-free iPhone
Your phone will now operate without AI features running in the background. All your regular iPhone functions remain exactly the same, just without the Apple Intelligence. You can always re-enable Apple Intelligence later if you change your mind.
Now that you've learned how to turn off Apple Intelligence, why not explore other iOS 18 features?
For help with documents and messages, Writing Tools is one of Apple Intelligence's most useful features. And for less well-known features, check out the changes to iOS 18 Notes, including how to summarize audio notes and phone call transcripts.
