Apple Intelligence: which iPhones can use it and what it needs

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Apple Intelligence is Apple's name for its built-in AI features, such as writing help, summaries, image tools and a more capable Siri. Much of it runs on the phone itself, which is why it is limited to recent models with enough memory.

Menu names are from recent versions of iOS.

Step by step

1. Check your model

   iPhone: 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and all models from the iPhone 16 on. iPad: models with an M1 chip or later, and the iPad mini with A17 Pro. Mac: models with an M1 chip or later. An Apple Watch Series 9 or later, Ultra 2 or later or SE 3 takes part when paired with a compatible iPhone.

   Done

2. Update the system

   You need iOS 27 on the iPhone. The steps are in how to update an iPhone.

   Done

3. Free up storage

   The models are downloaded to the phone. Apple gives up to 14 GB for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max and comparable models, and up to 8 GB for other compatible devices. To make room: iPhone storage full: 7 ways to free up space fast.

   Done

4. Match the languages

   Open Settings, General, Language & Region and check the iPhone language. Then check the Siri language under Settings, Apple Intelligence & Siri. Both must be set to the same supported language.

   Done

5. Know the supported languages

   English, Danish, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Norwegian, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish, Vietnamese, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Japanese and Korean. Not every feature is offered in every language and region.

   Done

6. Let it finish downloading

   On an eligible device in a supported region, Apple Intelligence becomes available after the update to iOS 27. The models download in the background over Wi-Fi, best with the phone on the charger. Features appear as they become ready.

   Done

Good to know

To see the switch and the download status, open Settings, Apple Intelligence & Siri. The same page is where you turn Apple Intelligence off again.

In the EU, Apple names advanced photo editing, Image Playground and intelligent browsing among the features offered on compatible devices with the latest system.

A phone that is not on the list does not get the features with a later update. They depend on the chip and the memory.

What else is new in the system: iOS 27 features and supported iPhones.

In short: iPhone 15 Pro or any iPhone 16 and later, iOS 27, up to 8 or 14 GB free, device and Siri language the same and supported, wait for the download.