Apple Intelligence may not be widely available just yet, but you can get access to the AI platform right now, if you really want it.
If you didn’t know, Apple has finally thrown its hat in the AI ring, announcing a platform that will operate on Apple devices like the iPhone and the MacBook. As is often the case, Apple took its time getting on the AI bandwagon, but now the launch is right around the corner.
Still, if you’re a bit impatient and want to get that Siri update sooner rather than later, there is a public beta program that can get the functionality on your phone today.
What Is Apple Intelligence?
Announced in June at WWDC 2024, Apple Intelligence is the AI platform designed by the tech giant to compete with the likes of Google’s Gemini and Samsung’s Galaxy AI. The AI will offer a wide range of generative AI functionality and will be built into Apple devices, like the iPhone, iPad, and MacBook.
When announced, Apple Intelligence was set to be released with iOS 18, the iPhone operating system that launched on September 20th alongside the iPhone 16. However, Apple revealed in July that the new AI features would not be ready and would instead be available in the iOS 18.1 update.
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Users are still waiting on the new update to drop, but in the meantime, Apple has opened the beta program to the public, so anyone can get access to the AI features. That is, if they’re willing, able, and knowledgeable about how to do so.
How to Get Apple Intelligence Right Now
As we’ve mentioned, Apple Intelligence is not readily accessible just yet for everyday users, because iOS 18.1 is not currently available to download.
However, Apple has officially opened up the beta program to the public, so you don’t have to be a developer to get your hands on the sought-after AI features. You’ll just have to sign up for the beta with your Apple Account and follow the instructions below to get your iPhone enrolled in the program.
Settings –> General –> Software Update –> Beta Updates –> iOS 18.1
If you want to get the AI features on other Apple devices, you’re in luck. The beta program also applies to iPads and MacBooks, and you just need to follow the instructions above to get started.
When Will Apple Intelligence Be Widely Available?
If you don’t want to go through all the effort of signing up for and installing the iOS 18.1 beta, we don’t blame you. In addition to being a bit of a hassle, beta programs are understandably less secure with a lot of glitches and bugs that hamper your overall experience.
So, when does iOS 18.1 and the Apple Intelligence features that come along with it actually launch for everybody? There is no firm date set in place just yet, but Apple has hinted at an October release date, so this new AI functionality should be here sooner rather than later.
Suffice to say, most users — particularly those without the technical knowledge to install and operate a beta — should probably just wait it out. Still, if you really have to get your hands on Apple Intelligence, now you know.
