With the release of iOS 18.3 and other software updates, Apple has introduced new AI-powered features under the branding of Apple Intelligence. These generative AI tools come enabled by default on supported iPhones, iPads, and Macs, raising concerns among users who value privacy, environmental sustainability, or simply prefer unimpaired device functionality.

Many users don’t appreciate being automatically opted into AI features, especially when these systems are still proving their utility. If you’re one of them, don’t worry. Disabling Apple Intelligence is relatively straightforward across Apple devices.

Why You Might Want to Disable Apple Intelligence

There are several valid reasons to consider disabling Apple Intelligence on your devices:

• Privacy: Despite Apple’s emphasis on privacy, some users prefer to avoid any form of data processing by AI systems.
• Performance: AI features may consume additional system resources, affecting battery life and general performance.
• Environmental Concerns: AI training and deployment have a significant environmental footprint due to high energy demands.
• Distrust of Generative AI: Some users simply don’t trust or agree with the current direction of AI development.
• Functionality Issues: Apple Intelligence is still a work in progress, with documented bugs and failures.

Step-by-Step Guide to Turning Off Apple Intelligence

Whether you’re using an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, the process to disable Apple Intelligence is similar. Follow these instructions to take back control:

On iPhone or iPad

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap Apple Intelligence & Siri.
3. Find the toggle for Apple Intelligence and switch it off.
4. A pop-up dialog will ask for confirmation. Confirm that you want to disable the feature.
5. Optionally, switch off Siri as well, especially for privacy reasons. This is particularly useful for disabling Siri on the lock screen.

On Mac

1. Click on the Apple icon in the menu bar and choose System Settings.
2. Navigate to Apple Intelligence in the sidebar or main settings area.
3. If enabled, click the toggle to turn off Apple Intelligence.
4. A dialog will ask for your confirmation. Confirm to proceed.
5. You may also want to disable Siri from the same settings panel for enhanced privacy.

What Happens When You Turn Off Apple Intelligence?

Disabling Apple Intelligence will turn off all associated generative AI features, including summarization tools, natural language enhancements, personalized suggestions, and advanced Siri capabilities. This can free up system resources and eliminate AI feedback loops.

Note that doing this may limit certain newer features, but your core Apple ecosystem functionality will remain intact.

Apple’s Privacy Approach to AI

Apple has emphasized privacy in its AI architecture, introducing what it calls the Private Cloud Compute system. According to Apple, this infrastructure ensures that no personal information ever reaches its AI processing servers. All calculations are done locally on your device or in anonymized form via this secure setup.

Still, user trust varies, and those seeking maximum privacy might prefer to avoid these services entirely.

Final Thoughts

Apple Intelligence marks a significant step in the company’s AI strategy, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re skeptical about generative AI, concerned about privacy, or simply want a more traditional device experience, switching off Apple Intelligence is a responsible choice.

Thankfully, Apple still gives users control—so take the time to adjust these settings and ensure your devices serve your preferences, not just the latest tech trends.