Following the launch of iOS 18.4, Apple Intelligence now offers support for eight new languages in addition to English. Nevertheless, some users have reported not being able to locate Apple Intelligence in their settings, even after upgrading their iPhone, iPad, or Mac to the latest version. This issue may stem from having devices that were purchased in China.
Apple Intelligence Unavailable on Devices Purchased in China
Initially, when iOS 18.1 was launched, Apple Intelligence was exclusively available in US English. While the majority of users could access the features by adjusting their device’s language and region settings, two areas were excluded from these AI features: the EU and China.
In these regions, the deployment of Apple Intelligence has been limited due to local laws. Although iOS 18.4 has enabled support for Apple Intelligence in the EU, featuring some local language compatibility, it is still inaccessible in China.
This is significant because users who purchased iPhones, iPads, or Macs in China cannot activate Apple Intelligence, even if they modify their settings or use their devices in another country. For example, one of our readers acquired an iPhone while in China, but even after leaving, Apple Intelligence remains absent from the iOS settings.
“Apple Intelligence will not currently be available for compatible devices purchased in mainland China. For compatible devices bought outside of mainland China, Apple Intelligence will also not function if you are in mainland China and your Apple Account Country/Region is set to mainland China,” states Apple on its website.
I bought iPhone 16 Pro Max CH/A model with dual SIM but I didn’t get Apple Intelligence, however, I’m not living in China.
— Ahmed AL-Ashwal (@Mr7Mind) March 30, 2025
How to Verify if Your iPhone, iPad, or Mac was Purchased in China
You can verify whether your device was bought in China by following these steps for iPhone and iPad:
- Open the Settings application.
- Select General.
- Tap About.
- Find “Model Number.”
To check on a Mac:
- Go to the Apple menu.
- Click About this Mac.
- Select More Info.
- Scroll down and choose System Report.
- Locate “Model Number” in the Hardware tab.
If the Model Number ends with “CH/A,” it indicates that the device was intended for the Chinese market, thereby restricting the availability of Apple Intelligence.
What Comes Next?
Apple has officially partnered with Alibaba to facilitate the availability of Apple Intelligence for iPhone users in China. A Bloomberg report has indicated that the company is developing a new system to ensure compliance with local regulations regarding its AI technologies.
It’s anticipated that once Apple officially implements the feature in China, users with devices purchased there will be able to enable Apple Intelligence worldwide. Until then, there are no immediate solutions for those affected.
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