By Michael Scott
American technology company Apple Inc. is set to unveil its artificial intelligence (AI) ambitions during the iPad event that starts on Tuesday. The ambitions of AI will constitute a critical part of nearly every element of the Apple ecosystem.
The ambitions for AI are emerging as the iPad event kicks off. While the previous focus has been unveiling the latest hardware, Apple consumers and investors are drawn to learn how the tech giant plans to harness AI into its ecosystem.
The Cupertino-headquartered multinational has yet to hint at a bold move into AI similar to previous blockbuster initiatives. The recent leaks cited by popular Apple reporter Mark Gurman hint that the event logo telegraphed when unveiled in April illustrates the release of new iPads.
Apple’s AI Objective Emerges
The reporter admitted that though the new devices feature new features and applications that leverage the upgraded specs, industry observers will wait till June for solid AI news. Gurman notes that June has the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) event, during which Apple will likely affirm AI integration into its ecosystem.
Gurman illustrates that Apple is set to replace and enhance Siri using the generative AI model possible via an alliance with Google or ChatGPT’s creator, OpenAI. Apple echoes an initiative by Microsoft to integrate AI-powered summarization into the keynote apps, numbers and pages.
Bloomberg publication indicated that the software development Xcode kit is set to add AI features. The addition of AI will help match the Github Copilot and Microsoft Copilot.
The integration of generative AI chatbots will facilitate the provision of AppleCare services. Apple Music is set to receive an AI upgrade to enable the platform users to generate customized Spotify-like playlists.
Apple to Embed AI Upgrade into Safari Web Browser
Apple Insider publication disclosed that the native iPhone browser Safari will realize an AI upgrade. In particular, Safari will incorporate the advanced content block feature identified as Web Eraser.
The Apple-centric media platform illustrated that the Tim Cook-led company is edging closer to adding AI-powered visual search features. Such aligns with the inclusion of AI during the quarterly earnings call held last week, where the chief executive hailed the Apple Watch for saving lives.
Cook reiterated that Apple is harnessing AI alongside machine learning to power lifesaving features such as monitoring regular rhythms and detecting falls. The executive hailed generative AI as a critical opportunity for Apple products to enhance its existing advantages.
Apple’s Chief Affirms Advanced Entry into AI Initiatives
Cook indicated that the present MacBook Air laptop claims the title of best consumer device for AI. When asked whether AI would become a critical factor influencing consumer purchasing decisions, the chief executive demurred.
Apple explained its visible absence in the global AI arms race that features Google, Meta, Amazon and Microsoft. The California-based tech titan admitted to having engaged with emerging technology for years.
Cook informed Reuters in August last year that Apple was conducting in-depth research regarding diverse AI technologies, among them generative AI. The executive assured Apple it would sustain investment and innovations geared towards advancing products with technologies that enrich lives.
In a November interview with singer Dua Lipa, Apple chief indicated that AI development should prioritize safety. The executive affirmed support for rules and regulations to guide AI and generative AI.
Cook urged governments to prioritize AI regulation, which Apple was fully supporting. Apple has recently led the call for AI regulation.
Apple Bold Journey into AI Space
Apple’s journey in the AI space is beyond the call for regulation, manifesting in entry into the segment traditionally dominated by Microsoft. Apple unveiled MLX as an open-source framework for M-series CPUs.
Apple announced partnering with the University of California Santa Barbara in February. The initiative targets developing MGIE software, which is identified as an AI model for editing images using natural language.
Apple will unveil OpenELM in April, unveiling OpenELM as a series of multiple AI language models. The initiative attempts to challenge Microsoft’s Phi-3, although Apple released 270M, 450M, and 3B versions.
Apple’s pursuit of AI initiatives drew the attention of regulators led by Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren. The US Senator urged antitrust lawsuit charges levelled against Google, suggesting a potential alliance with Apple.
Warren indicated that Google has 90% dominance of the search engine market and could pay billions to become the default web browser for Apple’s devices. The Democrat highlighted that Google is engaged in talks to integrate AI tools in iPhones.