Apple Intelligence is now more accessible to users outside the United States. Previously, users had to change their device region to the U.S., but a new update simplifies this process.
Despite this positive change, users in the European Union and China are still largely excluded from accessing Apple Intelligence due to regulatory concerns.
Simplified Access for Non-U.S. Users
In the latest iOS 18.1 Beta 3, Apple has removed the requirement to set the device region to the U.S. Now, users only need to set both device language and Siri language to U.S. English. This makes it simpler for users outside the United States to test new AI features without changing their device region.
This development is beneficial as it means users won’t need to alter settings like their clock or calendar. However, it’s important to note that these AI features are still only available in U.S. English.
Limitations for European and Chinese Users
Unfortunately, this update does not extend to users in the European Union or China. Apple’s own release notes for iOS 18.1 Beta 3 explicitly state, “Apple Intelligence is not currently available in the EU or China.”
This restriction is largely due to recent regulations in Europe concerning artificial intelligence, which have prompted Apple to delay AI features in the region.
Workarounds Exist but Are Complicated
While it’s technically possible to access Apple Intelligence in Europe, the process is cumbersome. Users would need to set their device region to the U.S., change their Apple ID country, and potentially use a VPN.
However, this process involves several complicated steps, such as canceling subscriptions that block a country/region change, waiting for subscriptions to expire, and re-downloading content. Even then, it might not work as intended, making it not worth the effort for most users.
Developer Beta Testing and Feedback
The new beta version allows developers outside the U.S. to provide feedback on Apple Intelligence. This could lead to improved features and wider availability in the future.
By joining the waitlist in the Settings menu, users will be notified when Apple Intelligence is ready for their device. Both device language and Siri language must be set to U.S. English to participate in the beta.
Impact on User Experience
This change makes it easier for international users to explore Apple’s AI capabilities without drastic settings changes. However, the limited language support and regional restrictions remain significant barriers.
For users outside the U.S., this update is a step forward but still falls short of providing full access to Apple Intelligence capabilities.
Future Outlook
As Apple continues to develop its AI features, there’s hope for broader availability. Regulatory hurdles in regions like the EU will need to be addressed first.
Ongoing feedback from developers and users worldwide will be critical in shaping the future of Apple Intelligence.
Steps to Access Apple Intelligence
To access Apple Intelligence, set both device language and Siri language to U.S. English. Join the waitlist in Settings and wait for notification of availability.
Apple has made strides in making its Intelligence features more accessible globally, but significant barriers remain, particularly in the EU and China.
While the update simplifies the process for many users, full global availability and language support are still on the horizon.
Source: Mashable