Apple Intelligence: What It Is, When It’s Coming, and Who Will Get It
After months of anticipation, Apple Intelligence was officially introduced at WWDC 2024 in June. This announcement came amidst a surge of generative AI news from companies like Google and OpenAI, sparking concerns that Apple might have fallen behind in the AI race.
However, Apple’s approach, true to its nature, reflects careful planning and innovation.
A Pragmatic Approach to AI
Apple Intelligence, also known as AI, isn’t a standalone feature but an integration into existing services. This large language model (LLM) driven technology will operate discreetly behind the scenes, enhancing features within Apple’s current app ecosystem. For users, this means new capabilities embedded in familiar apps, rather than a separate AI experience.
Defining Apple Intelligence
Apple has branded its new platform as “AI for the rest of us.” The platform aims to enhance existing functionalities by leveraging the strengths of generative AI, such as text and image generation. Similar to platforms like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, Apple Intelligence uses deep learning models to understand and generate text, images, video, and music.
The text functionality, powered by LLM, appears as Writing Tools across Apple apps including Mail, Messages, Pages, and Notifications. These tools can summarize long texts, proofread, and even compose messages based on user prompts. Image generation, on the other hand, allows users to create custom emojis and use the Image Playground app for generating visual content that can be shared across Apple platforms.
Revamping Siri
Apple Intelligence also brings a significant upgrade to Siri. Previously neglected, Siri now integrates more deeply into Apple’s operating systems. Users will notice a glowing light around their iPhone screen indicating Siri’s activity. Siri’s enhanced functionality allows it to perform tasks across different apps seamlessly, providing a more intuitive and context-aware experience.
Availability and Compatibility
While the features were showcased at WWDC, they are not yet fully available. Apple plans to release a beta version of Apple Intelligence in the fall, coinciding with the public release of iOS/iPadOS 18 and Mac Sequoia.
The new capabilities will be accessible at no extra cost to users with the following devices:
- iPhone 15 Pro Max (A17 Pro)
- iPhone 15 Pro (A17 Pro)
- iPad Pro (M1 and later)
- iPad Air (M1 and later)
- MacBook Air (M1 and later)
- MacBook Pro (M1 and later)
- iMac (M1 and later)
- Mac mini (M1 and later)
- Mac Studio (M1 Max and later)
- Mac Pro (M2 Ultra)
Notably, only the Pro versions of the iPhone 15 will support Apple Intelligence due to the standard model’s chipset limitations. Future models like the iPhone 16 are expected to support the new AI platform.
Private Cloud Compute
Apple’s approach involves a bespoke model for training AI, using in-house data sets for specific tasks such as email composition.
This method reduces resource intensity, allowing many tasks to be performed on-device. For more complex queries, Apple has introduced Private Cloud Compute, utilizing remote servers running on Apple Silicon to maintain privacy standards.
Strategic Partnerships
Prior to WWDC, there was speculation about a partnership with OpenAI. While Apple Intelligence is not powered by OpenAI, Apple plans to offer alternative platforms for tasks beyond its capabilities.
This partnership is a strategic move acknowledging the limitations of a small-model system. Apple also hinted at future collaborations, with Google Gemini likely being the next.
Apple Intelligence aims to integrate advanced AI seamlessly into everyday tasks, making the technology accessible and beneficial for a wide range of users.
With its careful approach and strategic partnerships, Apple is set to make a significant impact in the realm of artificial intelligence, enhancing user experiences while maintaining its commitment to privacy and efficiency.
