iOS 18.1 Beta is here: Apple Intelligence for testers

Apple began delivering the first beta of iOS 18.1 yesterday evening. With the new preview version, which is unusually available before the final version of iOS 18, iPhone users can, among other things, test the AI ​​features of “Apple Intelligence” for the first time.

AI features à la ChatGPT, new Siri

Apple is now delivering the first iOS 18.1 Beta The package, which brings some innovations for the US computer company’s smartphone operating system, also includes Apple Intelligence for the first time, i.e. Apple’s in-house implementation of new AI functions. The aim is to offer various functions of generative artificial intelligence, as with Windows Copilot and ChatGPT from OpenAI.

However, German users are left out in the cold for the time being. Apple Intelligence can basically be tried out worldwide, although the EU and China are still excluded. Because stricter rules apply here regarding privacy and data protection, users from the European Union cannot use Apple Intelligence for the time being. Of course, the iOS 18.1 beta can also be obtained in Europe, but Apple Intelligence does not work in this case.

Only in English – also available in the EU via VPN

There are also a few other requirements that must be met in order to use Apple Intelligence. For example, AI integration generally only works on smartphones in the iPhone 15 Pro series. You also have to change the device language and the region of the operating system to US English or the USA.

Once these requirements have been met, you also need a little patience. So far, after installing the IOS 18.1 beta, you can only be put on a waiting list to receive Apple Intelligence. Apple wants to ensure that its data centers are not overloaded, i.e. that there is sufficient capacity to process a growing number of requests when dealing with generative AI.

The range of functions includes text assistance, i.e. the ability to generate text or improve formulations. It also enables the generation of images and there is a new version of Apple’s voice assistant, which is intended to provide a better experience and access to the AI ​​features via voice input through the use of natural language.

Anyone who wants to try out Apple Intelligence in conjunction with the iOS 18.1 beta in Germany must activate a VPN on their device and establish a connection via a US server. This detour also allows the AI ​​functionality to be tested in this country, as long as the other requirements described above are met.