Hello everyone, I’m a server engineer and wanted to share some insights on this topic.
When you install iOS 18.1, you need to go to the Apple Intelligence settings to join a waitlist. Many people here think this is just about downloading the large AI model for your iPhone. But that’s probably not the case since Apple frequently rolls out large OS updates at a much larger scale than this.
The actual reason is likely that they are enrolling you in Private Cloud Compute. This is the server side of Apple Intelligence. Some requests are managed locally, while more complex ones are sent to the cloud. You can check out Apple’s public documentation on PCC to see how it works. They have created a really impressive system using custom server hardware built by Apple, which helps ensure your privacy.
Today is a big day for Apple server engineers, launching this new cloud system at a global level while managing real production traffic. They might be limiting the number of people allowed in initially to make sure it scales effectively.
There’s also a chance that delays could be related to the initial authentication process your device must go through called the PCC Identity Service. We’re not sure about the exact anti-fraud measures it uses, but it might depend on verifying your carrier details. This could explain any rejections from the waitlist.
I found the phrase ‘buttcheek clenching day’ hilarious, it perfectly describes the situation right now. It’s definitely a big launch, and rolling it out gradually makes sense.
The bug bounty program is a great idea too, it shows they have confidence in the platform and are willing to pay for top-tier security audits
@Wil
Yes, the privacy features of PCC are impressive. It only keeps a cache of the personal data submitted with your request, which is encrypted and can only be unlocked by your device for future requests