Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is just around the corner, and it is expected to be a significant moment in the tech giant’s history. While last year’s event saw the debut of the Vision Pro, this year’s focus will primarily be on software, particularly iOS 18. Apple is set to showcase its integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology into its devices and software, including an exciting partnership with OpenAI.
One of the major changes coming with iOS 18 is the implementation of AI features powered by Apple’s Ajax LLM. For example, suggested email replies will be driven by AI, and Apple plans to process AI data in a way that even its employees cannot access, ensuring user data privacy.
Siri, Apple’s digital assistant, is also getting an AI revamp. The updated Siri will be able to control individual features within applications without any setup required from developers or users. Users will be able to ask Siri to perform tasks such as deleting an email or editing a photo. Additionally, Siri will receive more natural-sounding voices and the ability to summarize notifications.
Apple Photos will also have a new interface, and users will be able to retouch photos using AI technology. A “Clean Up” feature will allow users to remove objects from their photos using generative AI, similar to Google Photos’ Magic Eraser. Apple has even developed an internal application called Generative Playground that uses GenAI to create and edit images, potentially integrating this functionality into Photos.
Safari will also incorporate more AI with an Intelligent Search feature that provides AI recaps of web pages and news articles. Notes will receive AI enhancements as well, with users being able to ask for AI recaps and have audio transcribed. In-app audio recording and AI summarization will also be supported in Notes. Additionally, Math Notes will help users solve equations through AI recognition of mathematical text.
Voice Memos will introduce real-time transcription, and iMessages will have generative AI emojis and AI recaps of missed texts. Deeper Siri integration, new Tapback icons, and message effects for individual words will enhance the iMessage experience. Users can also expect RCS support for improved texting with Android users via iMessage.
The Calendar app will communicate with Apple’s LLM to check for events when composing responses to messages. Mail will feature suggested email replies generated by Ajax, and a project called BlackPearl is upgrading Apple Mail with AI capabilities. The Settings interface will undergo a revamp for better organization and improved search. Control Center will introduce a new Music widget, and HomeKit will see improvements for smart home integrations.
AI recaps of missed notifications will be available, and Spotlight search is expected to be faster and more reliable. The Home Screen will offer the ability to place app icons wherever desired and change the color of app icons. Maps will introduce route creation, and Music will have AI-powered playlists.
Other apps like Freeform, Xcode, Keynote, and Pages are also slated to receive updates with GenAI features.
In conclusion, Apple’s WWDC 2024 is poised to bring significant advancements in AI integration across its software ecosystem. From Siri’s enhanced capabilities to AI-powered features in Photos, Notes, Mail, and more, users can expect a more intelligent and personalized experience on their iPhones. With Apple’s commitment to user privacy and data protection, the integration of AI technology is set to revolutionize the way we interact with our devices.
