iOS 18 could bring generative AI to your iPhone in the most Apple way possible
Apple is reportedly sticking by its ‘simple but effective’ philosophy
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It’s no secret thatApple has been biding its time on the AI front, and the latest intelligence surroundingiOS 18suggests that the company’s upcoming generative AI features could differ from those already available onSamsungandGooglePixel devices in one key way.
According to Bloomberg’s residentAppleexpert Mark Gurman (viaMacRumors), Apple’s generative AI features will be underpinned by a proprietary large language model (LLM) that runs entirely on-device, rather than via the cloud. This approach would prioritize speed and privacy, since an on-device LLM doesn’t require an internet connection to function, though Apple’s AI tools may be slightly less powerful than those available from cloud-based rivals (like Galaxy AI) as a result.
To combat the latter point, Gurman hints that Apple could “fill in the gaps” by licensing technology from Google and other AI service providers. The tipster has previously reported thatApple is in “active negotiations” with Google to license Google Gemini for certain iOS 18 features, so a Google-assisted Apple LLM is looking increasingly likely,despite our initial skepticism.
As above, on-device processing delivers quicker response times and superior privacy over cloud-based solutions, which fits with Apple’s traditional commitment to style, simplicity and security. Indeed, according to Gurman, this is how Apple will market its AI features – as reliable, usable tools that enhance users’ daily lives, rather than all-powerful creative ones.
Superior Siri
There’s still no word on what Apple’s AI features will be, exactly, but the likes of Siri, Messages, Apple Music and Pages are expected to receive significant AI-based improvements in iOS 18, with the formerreportedly in line for a ChatGPT-style makeover.
Rumors suggest thatSiri, specifically, will also harness generative AIto understand not just your vocal requests, but also the context behind them, which will presumably make theonce-pioneering voice assistant a much more useful featureof thebest iPhones, iPads and MacBooks, as well as, we hope, Apple’s long-awaitedHomePod with a touchscreen.
In any case, Apple’s suite of AI features are reportedly on track for a grand unveiling atWWDC 2024, so we don’t have too long to wait before we find out how theiPhone 16,iPhone 16 Pro Maxand other iOS 18-compatible devices will challenge the currentbest phoneson the market in the AI department.
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Axel is TechRadar’s UK-based Phones Editor, reporting on everything from the latest Apple developments to newest AI breakthroughs as part of the site’s Mobile Computing vertical. Having previously written for publications including Esquire and FourFourTwo, Axel is well-versed in the applications of technology beyond the desktop, and his coverage extends from general reporting and analysis to in-depth interviews and opinion.
Axel studied for a degree in English Literature at the University of Warwick before joining TechRadar in 2020, where he then earned an NCTJ qualification as part of the company’s inaugural digital training scheme.
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