How to Access Apple Intelligence: A Step-by-Step Guide

With the latest advancements in iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, Apple Intelligence brings a new layer of AI-powered capabilities to Apple devices. This feature, available on compatible iPhones, iPads, and Macs, harnesses powerful generative models and personal context to enhance user productivity, improve interactions, and streamline daily tasks. Here’s a guide on how to access Apple Intelligence on your devices.

1. Check Device Compatibility

Before enabling Apple Intelligence, confirm that your device is compatible. Apple Intelligence is available on the following:

iPhone: iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and all models of iPhone 16.
iPad and Mac: Any iPad or Mac model with an M1 chip or later.

Your iPhone will also need 4 GB of free storage to activate Apple Intelligence.

2. Set Language and Region to U.S. English

Apple Intelligence initially supports U.S. English, so ensure that Siri and your device language are set to U.S. English for full functionality.

To check:

On iPhone or iPad: Go to Settings > General > Language & Region.
On Mac: Go to System Settings > Language & Region.

3. Enable Apple Intelligence on iPhone and iPad

To start using Apple Intelligence on iPhone or iPad:

Open Settings and navigate to Apple Intelligence & Siri.
Tap on Join the Apple Intelligence Waitlist.
Once it’s ready, you’ll receive a notification. Follow the instructions to activate it on your device.

4. Enable Apple Intelligence on Mac

If you're using a compatible Mac, you can also request access:

Open the Apple menu > System Settings.
Select Apple Intelligence & Siri.
Click on Join the Waitlist for Apple Intelligence.
When notified, follow the instructions to activate the feature.

5. Discover Apple Intelligence Features

Once enabled, Apple Intelligence can assist with a variety of tasks:

Writing Tools: Access “Writing Tools” to refine text, summarize information, or adjust tone in apps like Mail, Notes, and Safari.
Enhanced Siri: Siri now offers expanded capabilities, allowing you to ask how to perform specific actions or schedule reminders.
Smart App Features: Use tools like “Priority Mail” in Mail to view important emails first, and photo search functions in Photos to locate specific images or moments.
Image Playground: Generate images based on prompts in supported apps, or create personalized Genmojis.

6. Privacy and Security with Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence is designed to prioritize privacy. Most AI processing occurs on-device, ensuring your personal data isn’t stored or shared. For more complex requests, Apple uses “Private Cloud Compute” technology, which securely processes information in the cloud without compromising your privacy.

How to Disable Apple Intelligence

To disable Apple Intelligence while it's in beta:

On iPhone or iPad: Go to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri, and toggle off Apple Intelligence.
On Mac: Select Apple menu > System Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri, and switch off Apple Intelligence.