# Grasping Apple Intelligence: Criteria for Accessing New AI Features
Apple is gearing up to unveil its highly anticipated Apple Intelligence in the near future, presenting a range of AI abilities meant to enhance user interaction across its devices. Nevertheless, not every user will have prompt access to these features. Here’s a detailed rundown of the six crucial criteria you must fulfill to utilize Apple Intelligence.
## 1. Compatible Device
The primary criterion for accessing Apple Intelligence is owning a compatible device. Due to the processing power required for AI functionalities, Apple has narrowed access to particular models:
– **iPhone**: You will need to possess an iPhone 16-series model or a 15 Pro or Pro Max.
– **iPad**: Any model featuring an M1, M2, or M4 chip will qualify.
– **Mac**: Any Mac model with an M1 chip or newer is suitable.
If you are unsure whether your device conforms to these criteria, you can refer to the [comprehensive list of compatible devices here](https://9to5mac.com/every-device-that-supports-apple-intelligence/).
## 2. iOS 18.1 or Companion Release
To take advantage of Apple Intelligence, you must have the necessary software update installed. The initial launch of AI features will align with three forthcoming software updates:
– **iOS 18.1**
– **iPadOS 18.1**
– **macOS Sequoia 15.1**
These updates are presently in beta testing and are anticipated to be accessible to all users later in October.
## 3. Sign Up and Get Off the Waitlist
Once you have installed the required software update, you will need to sign up for a waitlist to access Apple Intelligence. Apple has instituted this waitlist system for users of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
To join the waitlist, head to the Settings app after the update is applied. If demand is considerable, you may encounter a delay in access; however, Apple will inform you once you are off the waitlist. Importantly, if you plan to use Apple Intelligence on various devices, you only need to join the waitlist once; access will be granted to all compatible devices associated with your Apple Account.
## 4. Adequate Free Storage
Storage capacity is another vital criterion. While the precise storage requirements for iPads and Macs remain unspecified, Apple has indicated that iPhone users will need **4GB of free storage** to enable AI features. This space is necessary for installing the different AI models that support the new capabilities. As additional features become available over time, the storage requirements might increase.
## 5. Device Set to US English
At its launch, Apple Intelligence will exclusively support US English. Users must ensure that their device is configured to US English to utilize the AI functionalities. This condition applies to both the device language and the Siri language settings. More language options are anticipated to be rolled out in 2025, with localized English formats arriving in December for countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa.
## 6. Reside Outside the EU and China
The final stipulation is geographical. At this time, Apple Intelligence will not be accessible to users living in the EU or China. While there may be limited support for Mac users in the EU, Tim Cook has expressed that the company is diligently collaborating with local regulators to broaden access to these areas as swiftly as possible. Nevertheless, significant advancements in this aspect are unlikely in the near term.
## Summary of Requirements
In summary, here are the six prerequisites for accessing Apple Intelligence:
1. A compatible device
2. The required software update (iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, or macOS Sequoia 15.1)
3. Approval off the AI waitlist
4. 4GB of free storage on iPhone
5. Device set to US English
6. Residence outside the EU and China
If you fulfill all these conditions, the wait for Apple Intelligence is nearly at an end. For those who don’t mind potential bugs, you can even opt into a public beta today.
Are any of these criteria surprising to you? Share your opinions in the comments!
