When Apple launched its Visual Intelligence feature, it brought a revolutionary way for users to interact with their surroundings. By simply pointing a compatible iPhone camera at various objects, users could perform a Google Image Search or ask questions using ChatGPT. At the recent WWDC 2025 event, Apple showcased significant updates aimed at enhancing the functionality of Visual Intelligence, particularly by integrating it into the iPhone's screenshot system.
According to Apple's press release, the updated Visual Intelligence not only helps users identify objects and locations through their iPhone camera but now enables them to interact with content on their screens more efficiently. This improvement aligns with the concept of onscreen awareness that Apple introduced for Siri last year, which allows the voice assistant to understand and act on the information presented in various apps over time.
While the new screenshot-based Visual Intelligence feature is not directly linked to Siri, it offers a similar functionality. This update allows your iPhone to provide contextual actions based on the content displayed on your screen, enhancing user experience by minimizing the need for verbal commands.
In the upcoming iOS 26 update for devices supporting Apple Intelligence, users will notice a significant change when taking a screenshot. Instead of merely showing a thumbnail in the bottom left corner, the screenshot will occupy almost the entire display. This new interface will present options for editing, sharing, and saving, along with AI-generated suggestions at the bottom.
For instance, in the bottom corners of the screen, users will find options for asking ChatGPT questions and conducting a Google Image Search. Depending on the content of the screenshot, Apple Intelligence can suggest relevant actions, such as identifying plants, animals, or food, as well as offering links to purchase similar items.
The integration of third-party applications that support App Intents will also enhance the functionality of this updated Visual Intelligence feature. For example, if a user takes a screenshot of a particular item, they could quickly shop for it on platforms like Etsy or save it on Pinterest. This seamless interaction between apps provides a more cohesive experience for users looking to take immediate action based on what they see on their screens.
While the new features are undoubtedly exciting, they may also introduce a layer of complexity for users who prefer a straightforward screenshot process. For individuals who take screenshots primarily for record-keeping, like saving receipts, this new interface might feel like an unnecessary step. However, Apple has indicated that users may have the option to disable this new interface, allowing them to continue using the traditional screenshot functionality.
Apple's vision for Siri also reflects some of the capabilities found in the updated Visual Intelligence feature. In a previous press release, Apple highlighted how Siri could help users manage their contacts and calendar by scanning messages for relevant information. However, the full potential of Siri's interactivity across all apps remains a work in progress, and updates on this front are expected later this year, according to Apple executives at WWDC 2025.
Overall, the changes to the Visual Intelligence feature signify a step towards a more integrated and user-friendly experience on the iPhone. As we await further advancements, the updates to screenshots may serve as a glimpse into the future of how we will interact with our devices.
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