The latest update to Apple’s iOS, iOS 18.2, introduces a new feature called Apple Intelligence that includes improvements to Siri and other AI-driven tools. One of the first visual cues of this new feature is the improved look of Siri, which now features a pulsating rainbow of colors around the edge of the screen. However, some users may not see this new design right away and may need to take an additional step to enable the smarter Siri and other Apple Intelligence features.
While the iOS 18.2 update is available for all iPhone models from the XS and later, not all devices are able to run Apple Intelligence. Only a select few models, including the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, can run the new AI technologies. Additionally, Apple Intelligence is also supported on Macs and iPads with M-series processors, as well as the latest iPad Mini powered by the A17 Pro chip. Users with supported devices will see the new shimmering Siri design when they activate the assistant.
For users who do not see the new Siri design and are still using the previous version of Siri, it may be because they are on the Apple Intelligence waitlist. Apple Intelligence is currently in beta and access is being granted to users in waves. After updating to iOS 18.2, users need to go to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri and tap Join the Apple Intelligence Waitlist > Join Waitlist to request access. The new Siri effect will only show up after a user has been granted access, which may take a few hours. The waitlist approach allows Apple to manage demand and ensure a smooth roll-out of the new feature.
Reports online and from friends suggest that users have been able to start using Apple Intelligence within a few hours of joining the waitlist. This wait time may fluctuate as Apple manages the demand on its Private Cloud Compute infrastructure. Before updating to iOS 18.2 and enabling Apple Intelligence, it is recommended to back up your iPhone and adjust certain settings to optimize the new features. Overall, Apple Intelligence represents the company’s continued focus on AI-driven technology and the integration of intelligence into its products for a more seamless user experience.
