Apple has made a major announcement at its annual Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC 2024), unveiling Apple Intelligence, its newest generative AI service. This service combines multiple AI models to offer personalized, private, and secure capabilities across Mac, iPhone, and iPad devices. During the keynote address, Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, emphasized the privacy and security of the service, stating that it is aware of personal data without collecting it. Apple Intelligence runs on-device and on private clouds, depending on the AI models used, giving users control over their data.
One of the standout features of Apple Intelligence is “Genmoji,” a generative-AI powered tool that allows users to create custom emojis based on text alone. This feature enables users to have emoji resembling their friends and family in their Contacts. Apple is also introducing its own full generative AI image creation app called “Image Playground,” which can be used independently or within apps like Messages and Keynote. This app allows users to generate AI imagery from text, such as creating illustrations for planned or impromptu gatherings with friends.
Additionally, Apple Intelligence brings advancements to the Notes app with a feature called “Image One.” This feature analyzes handwritten or typed notes and generates images based on the content. The Photos app has also been upgraded to incorporate Apple Intelligence, allowing users to describe the kind of smart photo album they want, including specific themes and accompanying music. The AI will then scan through the user’s photos, select relevant ones, and generate the album with the desired music.
The service also introduces new tools for rewriting, summarization, and recommendations across all apps. It can generate AI images based on the photos in a user’s Contacts. Moreover, Apple has made significant upgrades to its AI voice assistant Siri. Siri now has the ability to accept dictated messages to send at a later time and can automatically add someone’s address from Apple Messages to their Contacts card with a voice command. Additionally, Siri can enhance photos upon command.
Apple Intelligence represents a significant advancement in generative AI, offering users personalized and secure capabilities across their Apple devices. With features like Genmoji, Image Playground, and Image One, users can easily create custom content based on their preferences. The integration of AI in the Photos app and Siri’s new capabilities further enhance the overall user experience. Apple continues to push the boundaries of AI technology, providing innovative solutions that cater to the needs and preferences of its users.