Apple’s WWDC 2024 introduced a range of AI-powered features, including Genmoji and Summarize, across iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia. These advancements have sparked excitement among AI enthusiasts, while also raising concerns among skeptics. To address these concerns, Apple’s SVP of Software Engineering Craig Federighi and AI head John Giannandrea held a fireside chat with iJustine during WWDC.
One of the main points discussed was Apple’s careful consideration of where AI is applied. Giannandrea emphasized that AI excels in certain areas, such as summarizing large amounts of text. As a result, Apple has integrated this capability into the Notes app, allowing users to generate text summaries from recorded and transcribed audio. However, AI’s limitations were also acknowledged, as it may not perform well in areas like mathematics. This indicates that Apple is unlikely to release an AI-powered homework helper anytime soon.
Federighi highlighted Apple’s approach to AI models, stating that they play to the strengths of these models rather than exposing weaknesses. He compared the use of chatbots to teenagers flying airplanes, suggesting that it may not be the best strategy for Apple. While there is some integration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT, it is carefully integrated into specific apps for optimal use. For example, users can ask ChatGPT for recipe suggestions based on a food picture or request a summary of a particular topic from a verbose document. Apple has curated this functionality to ensure a valuable user experience.
Giannandrea emphasized that Apple Intelligence has been designed to avoid surfacing the worst behavior of AI models. Apple follows a set of AI principles to approach AI responsibly. The new Apple Intelligence features are available for testing in the iOS 18 developer beta on devices like the iPhone 15 Pro series, iPad Pro, iPad Air, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro with the M1 chip or newer. The official release of iOS 18 is expected later this year, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 16.
Overall, Apple’s WWDC 2024 showcased the company’s commitment to integrating AI features in a thoughtful and responsible manner. By leveraging AI’s strengths while being mindful of its limitations, Apple aims to provide users with a valuable and seamless experience.