Apple Intelligence is set to revolutionize how we interact with our iPhones, combining advanced AI models with personalized context. This powerful new feature will enhance communication, productivity, and self-expression. Let’s explore its availability, requirements, and initial capabilities.
When and where can you get Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence will debut in beta with iOS 18.1, slated for release in October 2024. It will be accessible in most global regions, with a few exceptions we’ll discuss later.
Which devices are compatible?
Apple Intelligence will work on these iPhone models:
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
What do you need to use Apple Intelligence?
To leverage Apple Intelligence, make sure you have:
- iOS 18.1 installed
- Your device and Siri set to a supported language
- At least 4 GB of free storage on your iPhone
Note: As Apple rolls out more features, the storage requirements for on-device Apple Intelligence models may increase.
Supported languages and rollout timeline
- October 2024: English (US)
- December 2024: English (Australia), English (Canada), English (New Zealand), English (South Africa), and English (UK)
- 2025: Planned expansion to include Chinese, French, Japanese, Spanish, and more
Once activated, Apple Intelligence will continue to function when you travel internationally.
Regional restrictions to be aware of
- European Union: Currently unavailable if you’re in the EU with an EU-based Apple ID. It will work when traveling outside the EU if your device and Siri are set to a supported language.
- China: Not available for iPhones purchased in mainland China. For supported models bought elsewhere, it won’t function in mainland China if your Apple ID is registered there.
Apple aims to make Apple Intelligence available in the EU and mainland China in the future. Once released, previously purchased compatible iPhones will be able to activate and use it in these regions.
How to activate Apple Intelligence
After updating to iOS 18.1:
- Open the Settings app
- Tap on “Apple Intelligence & Siri”
- Select “Join the Apple Intelligence Waitlist”
Typically, Apple Intelligence becomes available within hours of joining the waitlist, though wait times may vary. You’ll receive a notification when it’s ready for activation. On-device AI models will start downloading after activation.
Initial features in iOS 18.1
The October 2024 release with iOS 18.1 will include these Apple Intelligence features:
- Writing Tools
- Clean Up in Photos
- Create a Memory movie in Photos
- Natural language search in Photos
- Notification summaries
- Reduce Interruptions Focus
- Intelligent Breakthrough & Silencing in Focus
- Priority messages in Mail
- Smart Reply in Mail and Messages
- Summaries in Mail and Messages
- Siri enhancements:
- Product knowledge
- More resilient request handling
- New look and feel
- More natural voice
- Ability to type to Siri
Apple plans to introduce additional features in the months following the initial release, further expanding the capabilities of Apple Intelligence.