Apple to load iOS 18 with AI features that will run on-device

Apple’s imminent iOS 18 is poised to be a game-changer for iPhones. The Cupertino tech giant is set to equip the upcoming operating system with an array of AI capabilities, all driven by a powerful large language model. Excitingly, a recent report indicates that these AI capabilities will function directly on the device, eliminating the necessity for cloud servers. This represents a notable leap forward in Apple’s AI technology and is anticipated to be a key feature of the iOS 18 reveal at WWDC 2024 on June 10th.

As per Bloomberg, the first set of AI features will be entirely device-driven, eliminating the need for cloud processing. This entails the use of Apple’s own large language model to power the new functionalities independently of external server assistance.

Yet, there are rumors suggesting that certain AI features might leverage cloud computing, potentially accessing third-party language models such as Google’s Gemini, OpenAI’s GPT, or Baidu’s AI, depending on regional preferences. Apple is reportedly in talks with these companies to explore integration options within the iPhone ecosystem.

No AI chatbot with iOS 18

Although iOS 18 might not debut a chatbot akin to ChatGPT or Copilot, the emphasis appears to be on incorporating generative AI capabilities into existing first-party apps. This step aims to boost efficiency and functionality across a range of Apple services, including Siri, the Notes app, Spotlight search, Safari, Apple Music, and beyond.

When it comes to which devices will get these new AI features with iOS 18, it’s still up in the air whether all iPhones eligible for the update will get them, or if they’ll only be available on the newer models. However, the idea of AI-powered improvements holds the potential to take the iPhone user experience to a whole new level, solidifying Apple’s standing as a frontrunner in innovation and technology.

However, there could be further AI features integrated into iOS 18 through partnerships with third-party service providers, potentially involving cloud processing. Bloomberg previously reported that Apple reached out to various companies, including Google, Microsoft-backed OpenAI, and China’s Baidu, for potential collaborations to introduce AI tools and features to Apple’s operating system.

When is Apple going to launch iOS 18?

While the majority of anticipated AI features in the upcoming iOS version are likely to be driven by Apple’s model, there’s a possibility it could incorporate Google’s Gemini or OpenAI’s GPT4 for extra tools and services.

In a post on Medium last year, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned Apple’s plan to acquire around 20,000 units of AI servers in 2024. Given that Apple doesn’t provide cloud hosting services, it suggests the possibility of using these AI servers to offer cloud-based AI services. Apple will showcase the next-generation iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and other platforms at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) from June 10 to June 14.