As I mentioned yesterday, Apple has introduced the Apple Intelligence feature in the latest beta version of iOS 18, significantly enhancing the playability of the iPhone 15 Pro series and subsequent models. Primarily, the addition of call recording functionality has piqued the interest of many users. However, sporadic reports from netizens indicate that the iPhone 15 Pro China version does not support Apple AI, contrary to the expectations of many who doubted Apple's decision (to be honest, I was skeptical myself yesterday). Nevertheless, a series of third-party tests have essentially confirmed this fact. The iPhone 15 Pro series (it remains unclear whether subsequent models will also lack this feature) indeed lacks the relevant AI functionality.

Following this revelation, numerous iPhone users conducted tests and discovered that the iPhone 15 Pro China version, despite changing regions, languages, or any other settings with a stable internet connection, failed to enable AI functionality. Similar to how the China version of the iPhone cannot access third-party app stores, it appears that Apple may have region-locked its AI features.

However, nothing is absolute. Just because the iPhone 15 Pro China version does not support AI does not mean Apple AI is unavailable in China. Online bloggers have tested and found that by switching the language to English on a Hong Kong or US version iPhone, users can experience Apple Intelligence, whereas the China version remains inaccessible. This disproves rumors of a regional lock on Apple AI but leaves questions about whether the restriction is hardware or software-based.

Personally, I believe the functionality is temporarily software-locked, as a hardware limitation would permanently exclude the feature, an unlikely scenario. Considering previous online reports, it's foreseeable that AI for the iPhone China version will be provided by domestic vendors. Due to unique circumstances, domestic devices face significant hurdles in adopting foreign AI technologies. Integration with domestic AI providers will take time, and temporary unavailability is understandable.

As a result, the Hong Kong or US version of the iPhone 15 Pro may gain popularity in the near future, as users can experience genuine Apple AI by changing regions and languages. However, note that the US version uses eSIM cards, unsupported by domestic carriers, limiting its appeal. In contrast, the Hong Kong version supports dual SIM cards with minimal usage impact and a lower price, potentially boosting sales among tech-savvy users.

Regarding Apple AI's user experience, international users have shared their insights online, praising Siri's increased intelligence and emotional intelligence in conversations. Still, the current version is preliminary, lacking several features and necessary tests, with a full rollout expected early next year.

Domestic users need not worry; AI support for the China version of the iPhone is assured, albeit provided by domestic vendors.