Software / iOS
Apple Intelligence is Apple’s AI feature set for supported iPhones, including writing tools, notification summaries, image tools, smarter Siri features, and other AI-assisted functions.
Worth it: Depends on how much you care about AI. If you're excited about AI-powered writing tools, smarter notifications, image generation, and future Apple features, then yes—buy an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence. If not, don't let it drive your decision. Today, features like ProMotion, battery…
Compatibility
Apple Intelligence support varies by iPhone generation. See the supported models table below for the full compatibility list.
| Supported models |
|
|---|---|
| Not included | iPhone 15, 15 Plus, iPhone 14 series and older, SE models, and any model without required Apple Intelligence hardware support. |
| Best value picks |
Feature guide
Apple Intelligence is Apple's artificial intelligence platform built into iOS.
It combines on-device processing with advanced machine learning to deliver features such as writing assistance, image generation, notification summaries, and a more capable Siri experience.
Apple Intelligence aims to make everyday tasks faster and more efficient while maintaining Apple's focus on privacy.
Many AI-powered features run directly on the device, reducing reliance on cloud processing and helping keep personal data secure.
Apple Intelligence requires modern Apple silicon and is supported on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and newer compatible models.
If AI-powered productivity tools, writing assistance, and smart automation are important to you, yes. Apple Intelligence is likely to become a major part of the iPhone experience going forward.
It changes which refurbished iPhones feel future-proof. A phone can still be good without Apple Intelligence, but it may miss Apple’s most visible new software features.
Access to Apple’s latest AI tools, better long-term software relevance, and stronger future-proofing.
Refurbished picks
For refurbished buyers, Apple Intelligence pushes the recommendation toward iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and newer supported models. It makes some older good-value iPhones less future-proof.
Pro iPhone power at half new price with years of updates ahead.
I've tested the iPhone 16 Pro Max—its A18 Pro chip and massive 6.9-inch 120Hz display handle everything smoothly. Refurb from Gazelle at $775-$929 saves hundreds over new. Long iOS updates make it a future-proof
Six years of updates and pro cameras—at nearly 40% off new.
The iPhone 16 Pro delivers flagship performance, a genuinely capable triple camera system, and seven years of guaranteed software support. At £619–£809 refurbished from Gazelle, you're saving nearly £200 versus buying new—and getting the
Pro iPhone power at half price with years of updates left.
I've tested the iPhone 15 Pro Max—its A17 Pro chip still flies through anything in 2026. Refurbished from Gazelle at $559-$759, that's over 50% off the $1199 new price. Smart buyers grab this for
Pro power and six years of updates at mid-range money.
The iPhone 15 Pro delivers flagship performance and a capable triple camera system for $463–$713 refurbished from Gazelle. You're saving hundreds on a phone that'll get iOS updates for the next six years, making
Big-screen iPhone power at half new price from refurb.
I've used the iPhone 16 Plus—its huge 6.7-inch screen and A18 chip handle everything smoothly. Refurb from Gazelle at $555-$666 saves you hundreds over new. Smart buy for long-term iOS support.
Worth it: Depends on how much you care about AI.
If you're excited about AI-powered writing tools, smarter notifications, image generation, and future Apple features, then yes—buy an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence.
If not, don't let it drive your decision. Today, features like ProMotion, battery life, camera quality, and software support have a bigger impact on daily use. Apple Intelligence is promising, but it's still evolving.
FAQ
Apple Intelligence is Apple's AI-powered platform that integrates writing tools, image generation, notification summaries, and contextual assistance directly into iOS.
If you regularly use productivity tools, writing assistance, or AI-powered features, yes. It adds practical functionality that can save time and streamline everyday tasks.
It depends on your priorities. If AI features are important to you, choosing a compatible iPhone makes sense. If not, other factors like battery life, camera quality, and display technology may matter more.
Probably. Apple is expected to continue expanding AI capabilities across iOS, making hardware compatibility increasingly valuable for long-term ownership.
