Meta blocks Apple Intelligence in iOS apps: Smart strategy or missed opportunity?

In an unexpected twist, Meta has reportedly blocked Apple Intelligence Writing Tools from all of its major iOS apps—including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads. The tools, which launched with iOS 18.1, offered AI-based rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing features directly within text fields across iOS apps.

According to Brazilian tech blog Sorcererhat Tech, users can no longer access Apple’s AI features like:

Writing Tools (rewrite, proofread, summarize)
Genmoji (AI-generated emoji) — although it still seems to work in Instagram during our tests
Keyboard Stickers and Memoji — no longer available in Instagram Stories

These features used to be accessible by simply tapping into a text field. Now, they’re completely unavailable in Meta’s suite of iOS apps.

Why is Meta doing this?

Meta hasn’t issued an official statement, but the reason likely boils down to AI competition. Meta has its own AI suite—Meta AI—already built into all of its apps, while Apple Intelligence is just beginning to roll out.

Here’s the possible backstory:

Meta wants users to rely on its own AI ecosystem
Apple allegedly walked away from integrating Meta’s Llama AI model over privacy concerns
Apple and Meta have previously clashed over App Store policies and user data handling

This move appears to be a strategic block, ensuring that users stick with Meta’s tools rather than defaulting to Apple’s.

What does this mean for iPhone users?

This is a setback if you’re using an iPhone running iOS 18.1 or later. Meta’s decision limits Apple Intelligence’s usefulness, especially for users who rely on Facebook, WhatsApp, or Instagram for messaging and content creation.

Apple is expected to expand the Apple Intelligence system-wide, but Meta’s resistance could create friction for iPhone users who prefer Apple’s built-in tools.

Is Meta making a smart move or missing out?

This strategic block may help Meta retain AI control in its ecosystem, but it also means missing out on potentially a better user experience and collaboration with Apple’s growing AI push.

Let’s not forget—Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI are all racing ahead in the AI space. Meta and Apple’s cold war could either fuel innovation or isolate user benefits.

What’s your take?

Is Meta protecting its turf, or hurting the iOS user experience by blocking Apple Intelligence? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on X!