Apple's latest iOS 18.1 beta 2 release has brought an exciting development for tech enthusiasts in the European Union. For the first time, English-speaking users in the EU can now access Apple Intelligence, a feature previously unavailable in the region.
Expanded Accessibility
The new beta version has broadened the localization options for Apple Intelligence. Users in Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Singapore, the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia can now explore this innovative feature. This expansion marks a significant shift from Apple's previous stance, where access was limited due to language support and regulatory concerns.
Regulatory Landscape
While Apple had initially geo-locked access within the EU, potentially due to Digital Markets Act regulations, the current beta appears to have lifted these restrictions. However, it remains uncertain whether these regulatory issues will be fully resolved by the time iOS 18.1 officially launches in October.
Device Compatibility
Apple Intelligence offers a range of capabilities, including text composition, email drafting, app automation, image generation, and document summarization. However, these features demand substantial on-device computing power. iPhone users require either an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max, while iPad users need devices powered by M1 or later Apple silicon processors.
Accessing Apple Intelligence in the EU
For eligible devices, users can follow these steps to access Apple Intelligence:
- Install the iOS 18.1 developer beta
- Navigate to Settings > General > Language & Region
- Add English (US) as a language
- Set the region to United States
- In Settings, tap Apple Intelligence & Siri
- Select English (United States) as the language
- Join the Apple Intelligence waitlist
- Once approved, turn on Apple Intelligence
It's worth noting that some Apple Intelligence features are still in development and won't be available until later next year.
This unexpected access to Apple Intelligence for EU users opens up new possibilities for technology interaction and productivity. As Apple continues to refine and expand this feature, users across the globe can look forward to increasingly sophisticated AI-powered assistance on their devices.