AI-powered Features Coming to iOS 18
Apple’s upcoming iOS 18 update is generating a lot of buzz, especially with reports of new AI-powered features for iPhones. According to a recent report by AppleInsider, Apple is working on AI-based updates for Messages, Siri, and Notes. While this isn’t the first time we’ve heard about Apple’s AI plans for iOS 18, let’s take a closer look at the reported AI features that are set to arrive with the next big update.
Underpinning these new AI tools is Ajax, Apple’s secret large language model (LLM). Ajax will allow iOS 18 to generate basic responses entirely on-device, reducing reliance on the cloud. Simple requests will leverage the neural engine within iPhones. Furthermore, the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max models are expected to come with an upgraded neural engine capable of handling more advanced AI processing.
To address privacy concerns, Apple will use “black box processing,” ensuring that users’ data remains completely private. This technique allows Apple to perform more complex AI processes in the cloud without compromising data security.
Now, let’s explore the seven rumored AI features that are expected to make their way to iPhones with iOS 18.
1. Smarter Siri: Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reveals that Siri will be able to perform a broader range of tasks, such as sending and deleting emails, opening documents, moving notes to different folders, launching specific newspapers in Apple News, summarizing articles in Safari, transcribing voice memos, and more. These enhancements are expected to roll out in 2025.
2. AI-generated Emojis: iOS 18 may introduce AI-generated emojis. Based on your conversations, the operating system will create new emojis that reflect the context of your discussions.
3. Suggested Replies in Messages: The Messages app will utilize AI to provide users with recommended replies, enabling faster responses. A similar feature is expected to be introduced in the Mail app.
4. Improved Safari: Safari, powered by Ajax, will gain the ability to identify key phrases and topics within web pages. This feature, known as “Intelligent Search,” will allow Safari to summarize online articles, enhancing the browsing experience.
5. AI-powered Photos App: To keep up with competitors like Samsung and Google, Apple plans to introduce AI-based editing features to its Photos app in iOS 18.
6. Smart Recaps: iOS 18 is rumored to provide users with quick summaries of missed notifications, allowing them to catch up on important information at a glance.
7. Eye Tracking: Taking inspiration from the Apple Vision Pro, Apple is set to launch eye tracking for iPhones and iPads. This feature, powered by AI and utilizing the front-facing camera, will enable users, especially those with disabilities, to use their eyes as a cursor.
Additionally, Apple is reportedly in talks with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into iOS 18, further expanding the capabilities of AI on iPhones.
While these features are based on rumors, Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024, scheduled for June 10, will reveal the official details. Until then, we can look forward to the potential advancements that AI will bring to iOS 18, making our iPhones even smarter and more intuitive.
