GoKawiilApple explains how iPhone's Live Text and Visual Intelligence features work
Apple's Visual Intelligence, introduced with iOS 18.1 as part of Apple Intelligence, lets compatible iPhones (15 Pro, 15 Pro Max or newer) identify objects, landmarks and business signage through the camera. Users can activate it via the Camera Control button, the Action button, Siri, or a Control Center shortcut, then get details through Siri, Google Image Search or ChatGPT. It also extends Live Text's existing ability to detect and act on text in the camera view, such as translating, reading aloud or opening links and contact details.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The feature reflects Apple's push to embed AI-driven visual search directly into the camera experience, competing with Google Lens. Because it requires newer, Apple Intelligence-capable hardware, it could also serve as an incentive for users to upgrade their devices to access these expanded capabilities.
- Visual Intelligence requires an iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max or newer
- It can be activated via Camera Control, Action Button, Siri, or Control Center
- It builds on Live Text by adding object and landmark recognition alongside text detection
Apple iPhone 16 Pro — Since Visual Intelligence and Live Text features require an iPhone compatible with Apple Intelligence, the iPhone 16 Pro is a great choice to get the most out of these tools. Its powerful chip fully supports Siri integration, Camera Control button shortcuts, and Visual Intelligence lookups for text, landmarks, and business info right from your camera.
See Apple iPhone 16 Pro on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Christine Persaud, 2026-09-27
Published there as: “How to use the Live Text feature on your iPhone”
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