Apple is set to kick off its worldwide developers conference (WWDC) next week, on June 10, where the American technology giant would detail its progress in the artificial intelligence space. Reportedly, Apple’s upcoming operating system for iPhones, iPads and MacBooks are expected to rely heavily on AI features. Traditionally, Apple restricts the core features of its new platforms to newer models. This year, however, Apple could expand the iOS 18’s AI features and improved Siri assistant to iPhone 15 Pro models.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said that Apple will limit on-device AI capabilities to the iPhone 15 Pro series and newer models, which are expected to arrive later this year in September, to make iPhone users upgrade to newer models. For iPads and MacBook, the minimum requirement for processing AI workloads locally would likely be the M1 chip.
Apple is betting that the new AI features for the iPhone will encourage users to upgrade their devices. Many of the on-device AI capabilities will require an iPhone 15 Pro or later to work. Macs and iPads, meanwhile, will need at least an M1 chip. https://t.co/iSDTs6Xahi
— Mark Gurman (@markgurman) May 31, 2024
Gurman further detailed the upcoming iOS 18 features. Here are the details:
Siri to get AI boost
Bloomberg previously reported that with the new operating system, Apple is expected to overhaul the virtual assistant Siri with AI capabilities. Detailing on this, Gurman said that Apple would likely power Siri with its own large language model (LLM). He said that leveraging the AI model, Siri will get the ability to control individual features within applications. This functionality would not require any changes at the user or at the developers end, but the underlying AI model will analyse the device usage and deploy Siri to help automatically.
The report stated that the AI-powered Siri would be capable of managing emails, pictures, files and more and could also move them around within the storage. Additionally, Siri could be prompted to edit an image or type a custom message or an email. However, Gurman said that these features will take time to get ready and would likely roll out next year.
While AI-powered Siri may take time to arrive, Apple could launch AI integrated features within native apps with iOS 18.
Apart from AI
iOS 18 could bring a refreshed look to some of the features in iPhones. Apple is reportedly planning to revamp the Settings app with a cleaner user interface with better organisation and improved in-app search. The Control Center is anticipated to get a new music widget and improved smart home appliances control. Additionally, the Photos app and Mail might get improvements in UI.
As per the report, the Messaging app might get new icons for Tap-back function and new effects for individual words.
First Published: Jun 03 2024 | 4:06 PM IST