Innovative features in the mobile web browser Arc Search from The Browser Company have caught the attention of users. One of the standout capabilities is its ability to search the web for users and provide them with a summary of the information it finds, as opposed to the traditional search results. This feature, known as “Browse for me,” is just one example of how Arc utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the web browsing experience.
However, Apple’s latest move to incorporate similar AI features into its own apps and OS features has raised concerns that Arc may be the next victim of “sherlocking.” The term “sherlocking” refers to Apple’s practice of borrowing ideas from the developer community to enhance its own offerings. This strategy traces back to the late 1990s when Apple released a finder app called Sherlock, which had similarities to a third-party finder app called Watson.
Over the years, Apple has been accused of sherlocking various products and apps, including features like using an iPhone as a webcam (similar to the Camo app) and using an iPad as a second screen (similar to Duet Display and Luna). Even services like Apple Pay Later have been deemed a “sherlock” of other buy now, pay later apps.
With the upcoming release of iOS 18, Apple is rumored to be introducing “smart recaps” and other AI-powered additions to core apps like Photos, Notes, and Safari. These smart recaps will provide users with summaries of missed notifications, text messages, web pages, news articles, documents, notes, and other media. This move by Apple could have an impact on Arc’s AI-driven summary feature.
Arc has gained recognition for its ability to summarize the web using AI, making it a key aspect of the browser. The company is constantly innovating in this area, recently launching “Call Arc,” where users can ask questions verbally by raising their phone to their ear. Alongside features like “Browse for me” and “pinch to summarize,” Arc has established itself as a trusted AI search companion.
Summarizing news with AI has become a focus for several startups, indicating the growing demand for this type of technology. However, if Apple incorporates AI-powered recaps into its Safari browser, it could potentially reduce the demand for alternative browsers or apps that offer similar AI tools.
Despite this potential impact, Arc remains committed to its growth and experimentation. The company is actively exploring new ideas beyond AI summaries, such as finding ways to minimize distractions, organize tabs, block ads, and more. Additionally, Arc is developing an AI assistant named Max to further enhance the browsing experience.
In conclusion, the clash between Apple and Arc highlights the ongoing competition and innovation in the realm of AI-powered browsing features. While Apple’s “sherlocking” practices may pose a challenge for Arc, the startup remains dedicated to pushing boundaries and offering users unique features beyond AI summaries. As the demand for AI-driven browsing continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how both Apple and Arc adapt to meet user expectations.
