Apple Intelligence now available for iPhone, iPad through public update; Here's how users can access it in India

Apple is levelling up its ecosystem with the release of Apple Intelligence, a personal AI feature set available through the latest software updates — iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1.

This powerful upgrade harnesses Apple’s M-series silicon, offering advanced tools like natural language processing, improved search capabilities, and even image generation. Apple promises that these tools will streamline everyday tasks across iPhones, iPads, and Macs while maintaining user privacy.

A smarter experience with Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence represents years of research, bringing new ways for users to interact with their devices. According to the company, these tools are designed to help people work smarter and enjoy richer interactions with their Apple products.

The rollout starts with features such as enhanced writing tools, a more responsive Siri, and smarter photo search options, initially available to devices with US English settings. While the system makes use of cloud computing for complex operations, many tasks are processed directly on the device to ensure data security.

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Powerful photo search and writing tools
The Photos app now benefits from improved search abilities, making it easier to find memories through detailed, natural descriptions. Users can search for scenes like “Maya skateboarding in a tie-dye shirt” or skip directly to key moments within videos. The new Clean Up feature also allows users to remove distractions from their images effortlessly, keeping only the best parts of their memories.

Apple Intelligence’s writing tools offer the ability to rewrite, summarise, and proofread text across apps like Mail, Messages, Notes, and Pages. Users can fine-tune the tone of their writing, switch to a more professional or friendly style, or even generate summaries in formats like bullet points or tables. This goes beyond simple grammar corrections, adding contextual flair to written content.

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Siri gets a smarter makeover
Siri has also received a major upgrade, now able to switch seamlessly between text and voice inputs. With improved understanding of context and the ability to follow conversations across multiple requests, the virtual assistant feels more natural than ever.

Siri can also provide in-depth responses about settings, app features, and other Apple services, making it a more helpful companion for multitaskers on iPhones, iPads, and Macs.

Privacy at the heart of Apple Intelligence
Apple reassures users that privacy remains a key focus. On-device processing handles most tasks, and complex AI operations are managed through Apple’s Private Cloud Compute, ensuring that personal data stays protected.

Integration with ChatGPT for Siri and writing tools is optional, with strict privacy protocols in place to anonymise data. Apple calls this a step forward for privacy-focused AI innovation, giving users peace of mind while enjoying the new capabilities.

More updates to come
The tech giant has plans to roll out even more features by December, including Genmoji, a playful tool for creating custom emojis, and an Image Playground powered by AI. Users who are on the iOS 18.2 Beta update already have access to these features. Localised versions of Apple Intelligence are also in the works, with support for UK and Australian English expected soon, and more languages to follow by April.

How to access Apple Intelligence in India
While Apple Intelligence is yet to officially launch in India, eager users can access it by tweaking a few settings. To get started, switch your device language to US English by navigating to:

Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri > Language > English (United States)

Additionally, update the region setting by going to:

Settings > General > Language & Region > and select English (United States) as the language

In some cases, users may also need to change their device region to the US to activate the feature. Those who tried Apple Intelligence during the iOS 18.1 beta found that switching regions was necessary to unlock the full functionality.

With these adjustments, Apple enthusiasts in India can enjoy the latest AI-driven features ahead of the official launch, giving their devices a smart boost while they wait for full regional support.