How to use Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence is your personal intelligence system, empowering you to communicate, work, and express yourself seamlessly. By combining advanced generative models with your unique context, Apple Intelligence delivers insights and support tailored to you—all while protecting your privacy.

Apple Intelligence is currently available in beta for iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1. It is accessible when both your device language and Siri language are set to a supported option.

After updating your device:

  1. Simply go to Settings.
  2. Select Apple Intelligence & Siri.
  3. Join the Apple Intelligence Waiting List.
Source: Apple

Activation typically happens within a few hours, though times may vary. You’ll be notified once it’s ready to activate, and on-device Apple Intelligence models will download automatically after activation.

Apple Intelligence Requirements for iPhone, iPad, and Mac

Supported Devices

  • iPhone 16 series, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • iPads with A17 Pro or M1 and later
  • Macs with M1 or later

Operating System

  • iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, or macOS Sequoia 15.1
  • Settings
  • Device language and Siri language must be set to a supported language
  • Storage
  • 4 GB of storage is required 

Find out how to free up storage on your iPhone, iPad or Mac.

Supported Languages

Currently available in English (US), with new regions coming in December, including Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK. Over the next year, support will expand to more languages, including Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Vietnamese, and more.

Once enabled, Apple Intelligence continues to function worldwide.

Region-Specific Availability

European Union Residents: 

Apple Intelligence is temporarily unavailable for iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 if your location and Apple Account are set within the EU. However, if you travel outside the EU, Apple Intelligence will work on your supported devices with the appropriate settings.

China Residents: 

Apple Intelligence is currently unavailable for devices purchased within mainland China. Devices bought outside China will also be restricted if you are in China and your Apple Account is set to that region.

Compatible devices will gain full access when Apple Intelligence becomes available in the EU and China.

Apple Intelligence Features

With iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, Apple Intelligence integrates directly into your apps and experiences, introducing a powerful lineup of capabilities:

  • Writing Tools
  • Clean Up in Photos
  • Create a Memory Film in Photos (Not available in macOS Sequoia 15.1)
  • Natural Language Search in Photos
  • Notification Summaries
  • Reduce Interruptions Focus Mode
  • Intelligent Breakthrough & Silencing in Focus
  • Priority Messages in Mail
  • Smart Reply in Mail and Messages
  • Summaries in Mail and Messages

Siri enhancements include product knowledge, improved request handling, a refreshed look, a more natural voice, and more options like typing to Siri.