iOS 18.1 Update: How to Join the Apple Intelligence Waitlist and Access AI Features for Your iPhone and iPad

San Francisco, CA – Apple has released the latest iOS 18.1 update, introducing Apple Intelligence features to newer iPhone models, such as the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, and iPhone 16 Pro. Additionally, iPads with M-series processors from 2020 or later, as well as the new iPad Mini, can also access these features through iPad OS 18.1. However, users must request access to Apple Intelligence and join a waitlist in order to utilize these new AI technologies.

The iOS 18.1 developer and public betas saw Apple gradually unveiling the initial wave of Apple Intelligence features. While many of these features operate locally on the iPhone, some tasks are offloaded to Apple’s Private Cloud Compute infrastructure. Unlike Google Gemini and OpenAI, which rely on cloud processing for AI tasks, Apple’s Private Cloud Compute technology manages tasks with a smaller number of processors.

To request access to Apple Intelligence, users must download and install iOS 18.1 on their devices, ensuring they have made a backup beforehand. In the Settings app, users will find the option to join the Apple Intelligence Waitlist under Apple Intelligence & Siri. The process of gaining access to Apple Intelligence varies, with some users waiting only a few minutes while others may experience longer wait times as Apple scales up for broader adoption.

As iOS 18.1 is adopted more widely, the use of an Apple Intelligence waitlist allows Apple to manage the computational load effectively. This strategy prevents overwhelming the servers with simultaneous requests and enables the company to gradually roll out access to new AI features. For instance, the iOS 18.2 developer beta includes the Image Playground app for creating Genmoji and AI-generated artwork, with access being rolled out gradually to users.

Overall, the integration of Apple Intelligence features into iOS 18.1 marks a significant advancement in Apple’s ecosystem of devices. By joining the waitlist and embracing these AI technologies, users can enhance their experience with iPhones and iPads, paving the way for a more intuitive and efficient user experience.