Apple has confirmed that its AI, ‘Apple Intelligence,’ will launch in Germany in April, with early access available through the iOS developer beta. Currently exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro, 16, and 16e models, the new features include a revamped Mail app, enhanced writing tools, and a creative ‘Image Playground.’ Siri will also improve with better context awareness and integration with ChatGPT. Additional functionalities will be accessible on iPad and Mac with the relevant beta programs.
For quite some time, there has been much speculation regarding when Apple would introduce its proprietary AI, ‘Apple Intelligence,’ to Germany. The tech giant has officially confirmed that the launch is set for April. However, eager users can explore all the exciting new features right now—if they meet certain criteria.
With the release of the initial iOS 18.4 beta, Apple Intelligence has finally made its debut in Germany. Access is limited to those participating in the iOS developer beta program, while others will have to wait until April for the full update. To fully experience the new Apple Intelligence features, you’ll need a compatible iPhone.
Join the Beta Testing Community
Currently, Apple Intelligence is exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, and the latest iPhone 16e models. Users with older devices will receive only minor updates with iOS 18.4.
If you’re eager to get a firsthand look at the new AI capabilities, you can easily sign up to become a beta tester. We’ve created a comprehensive guide explaining how to join the beta program.
Exciting Features to Explore
Among the minor updates are the integration of robotic vacuums into the Home app and a variety of new emojis, such as a harp, a shovel, and a fingerprint. However, the standout innovations come from the Apple Intelligence integration:
Revamped Mail App
Apple Intelligence is set to transform the Mail app significantly. The user interface will undergo a redesign, and the AI will automatically categorize your emails into specific groups:
This categorization feature is enabled by default, but you can switch to a chronological view via the settings. The AI also offers the ability to summarize lengthy emails and suggest appropriate responses. Additionally, the search functionality will be enhanced with AI support.
Enhanced Writing Tools
A new writing tool will allow you to modify the tone of your text, making it either friendlier or more professional. The rewrite feature takes it a step further, enabling you to rephrase text as needed—imagine asking it to ‘turn this text into a poem.’ This functionality is integrated directly into the iOS keyboard, allowing for easy adjustments to WhatsApp messages as well.
Creative Image Playground
Introducing the ‘Image Playground’ app, where you can craft images based on your ideas. Similar to ChatGPT, simply input text, and the app generates suitable images in animation or illustration styles—realistic representations are not included.
You can explore predefined categories such as themes, locations, or costumes for inspiration. Furthermore, you can transform images from your gallery or basic sketches from your notes into AI-generated artwork.
Customizable Genmojis
Say goodbye to traditional emojis! With Apple Intelligence, you can create personalized ‘Genmojis.’ Just describe your idea or upload a selfie, and the AI will generate a custom emoji-style image. The best part? Genmojis display correctly wherever rich text (RTI) is supported, meaning Android users can also view them.
Practical Visual Intelligence
A particularly useful feature for everyday tasks is Visual Intelligence. Simply point your camera at public buildings, such as restaurants, to instantly see information on opening hours, reviews, and popular dishes.
This tool can also read text aloud, recognize phone numbers and addresses, and seamlessly add them to your contacts. Moreover, the AI can summarize text from images or scan products and provide availability information.
Siri Gets Smarter
Siri is set to benefit immensely from Apple Intelligence. The assistant will not only understand context better but will also build upon previous queries. Users won’t need to repeat themselves when asking multiple questions in succession—Siri will maintain a natural flow of conversation. Additionally, Siri will be able to remember your preferences and respond to commands like ‘Play my favorite podcast.’ Follow-up questions will also be supported.
Thanks to a collaboration with OpenAI, Siri can delegate challenging tasks to ChatGPT for more accurate answers. Meanwhile, Apple aims to process as many AI requests locally on the iPhone, enhancing data protection.
However, it remains uncertain if all these features will be available in April. Apple’s press release hints at future enhancements for Apple Intelligence, including additional options for Siri, suggesting that some new features may take a little longer to arrive.
Apple Intelligence on Mac and iPad
If you lack a compatible iPhone but wish to experience the AI features, you can also access most functionalities through an iPad or MacBook. However, you will need to participate in the developer beta for iPadOS 18.4 and macOS Sequoia 15.4, along with meeting specific hardware requirements. Users with an iPad Pro should have no trouble accessing the AI, which is also compatible with the iPad Air (4th generation), standard iPad (9th generation), and iPad mini (6th generation). All Macs equipped with at least an M1 chip can also take advantage of these AI features.
Moreover, Apple Intelligence will be introduced to the Apple Vision Pro with visionOS 2.4 starting in April, although it will initially be available only in English. According to Apple, this will enable users to engage in communication like never before.