Apple Joins the AI Revolution: What to Expect

Apple has officially entered the AI race, introducing generative technologies to millions through devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Apple’s new AI, dubbed Apple Intelligence, is described as a “personal intelligence system” integrating powerful generative models into its core devices. This AI can create text, images, and more. But is Apple Intelligence truly revolutionary or just another buzzword? The technology will debut this fall with the new operating systems, and non-developers can access it next month. Here are some key questions about Apple Intelligence.

1. What Data Gets Sent to Private Cloud Compute?

Apple aims to distinguish its AI by enhancing user data privacy. User requests to Apple Intelligence first go to the on-device chip for local processing. If the request is too complex, it gets routed to Apple’s Private Cloud Compute server. However, what qualifies as “too sophisticated” remains unclear. Apple states that only “more complex requests that require more processing power” will be sent off-device, without specifying if users can opt-out or if they will be notified.

2. Should You Upgrade to Access Apple Intelligence?

Apple Intelligence requires the latest devices, running only on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max (and presumably the next-gen iPhone 16). For iPads and Macs, an M1 chip or newer is needed. This leaves many long-time Apple device users without access. Those who recently purchased an iPhone 15 or 15 Plus may be particularly frustrated. With other companies like Microsoft also requiring hardware upgrades for AI features, it’s clear that entering the AI age will necessitate new devices.

3. Will Siri Finally Shine?

Siri is set for a significant upgrade with Apple Intelligence, promising more natural and fluid conversations. Users can type questions to Siri, turning it into a search-focused chatbot. Additionally, Siri will integrate with ChatGPT, enabling it to perform unique actions with data on your device, like pulling up photos or summarizing notes. Apple plans to further integrate Siri with more apps, aiming to make it a more effective assistant.

4. Will AI Writing Tools Hallucinate?

Apple Intelligence will bring AI-powered Writing Tools to nearly every text field, including third-party apps. These tools can reword drafts, making them clearer and more concise, and can even change the tone of emails. ChatGPT integration allows for draft generation, with premium features available for ChatGPT Plus subscribers. However, CEO Tim Cook warns that AI hallucinations may occur, introducing inaccuracies or misconstruing intent, akin to autocorrect errors.

5. Is Emoji Chaos Coming?

Apple Intelligence introduces Genmojis, personalized animations created from text prompts. These replace standard emojis, allowing for more expressive communication. Users can also create images with friends and family in the new Image Playground, but Apple limits artwork to three non-photorealistic styles to avoid deepfake concerns. Compatibility issues may arise if Genmojis are sent to older phones, potentially leading to confusion.

Apple’s AI advancements promise exciting new features, but they also bring challenges and uncertainties. As the technology rolls out, users will need to navigate these changes and decide if the benefits are worth the upgrades.