Today marked a pivotal moment for Apple, as it unveiled its ambitious AI plans for the iPhone, Mac, and a range of its devices. While Apple may have entered the AI race later than some competitors, its strategy has always prioritized meticulous refinement over being the first to market. This approach has fueled anticipation for what Apple has been quietly developing behind closed doors.
A key pillar of Apple’s AI strategy reportedly involves a billion-dollar partnership with OpenAI, aimed at integrating advanced AI capabilities like ChatGPT throughout its ecosystem. This includes the iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and the Vision Pro. Unlike other brands that have incorporated chatbot integrations, Apple is expected to implement these features in a uniquely innovative manner, showcasing its commitment to pushing boundaries in AI technology.
One of the most anticipated aspects of Apple’s AI unveiling is the significant upgrade slated for Siri, its voice assistant. Since its debut with the iPhone 4S in 2011, Siri has undergone minimal evolution. However, leveraging advanced AI and Apple’s renowned engineering prowess, this overhaul promises to revolutionize Siri’s functionality and user experience. With these advancements, Apple aims to redefine its AI landscape, promising groundbreaking progress across its entire product lineup.
iOS 18: iOS 18 is poised to be a game-changer for Apple’s phone software, with significant AI-focused enhancements such as summary tools and generative photo editing features. However, it’s rumored that these AI capabilities may require an iPhone 15 Pro or later to support, though the specifics regarding on-device AI remain unclear. Additionally, iOS 18 is expected to introduce a new interface allowing users to place apps anywhere on the home screen, along with revamped Control Center and Settings app. There’s also speculation about tighter Calendar/Reminders integration, customized routes in Maps, and the possibility of Apple introducing its own password manager.
iPadOS 18: iPadOS 18 is anticipated to mirror many of the features introduced in iOS 18, including AI capabilities tailored for Apple’s tablet. Users may finally get a built-in calculator app, along with features tied to the rumoured Apple Pencil 3, such as the rumoured “squeeze” feature for the device’s eraser.
macOS 15: macOS 15 is likely to follow suit with iOS 18, emphasizing AI enhancements across various applications. Changes may include a revamped System Settings, Siri overhaul, and updates to Calculator, Notes, Safari, and Voice Memos, all with a focus on AI-driven features.
watchOS 11: watchOS 11, while less discussed, is expected to bring changes to the Siri interface and the Fitness app, aiming to enhance the overall user experience on Apple’s smartwatch.
tvOS 18 and visionOS 2.0: For tvOS 18 and visionOS 2.0, updates are anticipated for Apple TV devices and the Vision Pro headset’s software, respectively. While the details remain scarce, it’s speculated that the visionOS update may cover Vision Pro versions of iPad apps and introduce new environments, though major overhauls are not expected at this time.