Apple has long offered workshops and classes in stores around the world, from how to get the most out of your iPhone to a bona fide summer camp – ‘Apple Camp’ – for kids, and as you might expect, they’ve come up with an offering for Apple Intelligence.
Starting Wednesday, October 30, 2024, Apple Stores in the United States will host new small, 15-minute drop-in sessions focused on Apple Intelligence. Both the features released this week, iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1, as well as a preview of future features like contextually aware Siri, Genomji and Image Playground. These new Apple Intelligence sessions join the more formal Today at Apple workshops and other drop-in sessions.
So whether you’re confused about Apple Intelligence, unsure where to start, or have a specific question about using writing tools or decluttering photos, an Apple Store is the place to go.
Unlike other workshops or “Today at Apple” events, these Apple Intelligence drop-in sessions do not require pre-registration. At larger stores with a good video wall, like The Grove in LA or Fifth Avenue in New York City, you’ll find that Apple retail associates will use the cinema with a teaser image to top it all off. At smaller locations, you may be able to gather around a table to review the approximately 15-minute presentation.
I got a special sneak peek at the Apple Intelligence-focused workshop, and it feels a bit like a choose-your-own adventure. The Apple specialist walks you through the most important features, such as Writing Tools or Cleanup in Photos, and asks questions to get a sense of what might be most useful for the group present.
If you have an iPhone, you can even walk through Apple Intelligence features in real time. There are also demo units available if you’re tempted to upgrade but want to try it first.
Presenting Apple Intelligence in the Today at Apple drop-in format makes a lot of sense. This lets you put many of the new Apple Intelligence features to the test without being overwhelmed. You can also ask questions and get walkthroughs. If you don’t happen to walk in when something is going on, you can always ask an Apple retail representative for one-on-one assistance.
You can also read our iPhone 16 review to get a sense of the Apple Intelligence experience on that device. However, Genmoji, Image Playground and a ChatGPT integration for Siri should arrive in December 2024 with iOS 18.2.