Apple Intelligence officially arrives in iOS 18.1, bringing important AI capabilities across Apple devices. Apple Intelligence can summarize voice notes and call transcripts, but these features are just the beginning. The update introduces a smarter version of Siri that better understands context and follow-up questions, and Clean Up for Photos, Apple’s own take on Samsung’s Magic Editor feature.
Getting started with these features isn’t as easy as a standard iOS update. Apple is carefully managing the rollout to provide a smooth experience for all users. This means that you need to follow certain steps to activate Apple Intelligence on your device. Whether you use an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you’ll need to join the waitlist to access these new features.
Note that Apple Intelligence features are only available on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, all iPhone 16 models, and Macs and iPads with M1 or later. Let’s take a look at how to activate Apple Intelligence on each compatible device.
Apple Intelligence on iPhone
(Image: ©Future)
First, make sure your iPhone is compatible. Requires an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or iPhone 16 model. Your phone must also be set to US English To join the Apple Intelligence waitlist.
heading to settingafter that Tap Apple Intelligence & Siri. You will see the following options “Join the Apple Intelligence waitlist.” Once you join, Receive a notification when a feature is ready Activate on your device. The system then downloads the required on-device AI capabilities.
Apple Intelligence on iPad
(Image: ©Tom’s Guide)
iPad user Requires device with M1 chip or neweror an iPad Pro with M1 or later. The activation process mirrors the iPhone steps. Open Settings and go to Apple Intelligence & Siri to join the waitlist.
Just like on the iPhone, you’ll receive a notification when a feature is ready, and your iPad will download the feature you need.
Apple Intelligence on Mac
(Image: ©Tom’s Guide)
Activation on Mac follows a slightly different path. Click the Apple menu and choose System Preferences. Find Apple Intelligence and Siri In the menu, Click Join Apple Intelligence Waitlist.
The same notification and download process applies, but make sure your Mac has enough storage space for the feature.
What happens after activation?
(Image: ©Tom’s Guide)
Once activated, Apple Intelligence features appear across your device. Look for new options photo app, writing assistance in text-based apps, and Enhanced Siri ability. Email function It’s automatically integrated into your email app, but Summary tool Displayed in compatible apps.
Please note that the rollout will be gradual to ensure system stability. You likely won’t see the feature immediately after joining the waitlist, but it should appear within a few hours. Happy AI!
Now that you’ve activated Apple Intelligence across your devices, you can start exploring its features. Want to take control of your inbox? Learn how Apple Intelligence summarizes all your emails. For help with documents and messages, the Write tool is one of the most useful features in Apple Intelligence. Here’s what you can do with this: Check out iOS 18 for lesser-known features. Notes has been significantly improved. Here’s how to use it:
