Apple's forthcoming iOS 18 update is poised to make significant advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) while prioritizing user privacy. According to a recent report highlighted in Bloomberg's PowerOn newsletter by Mark Gurman, the tech giant is developing new AI capabilities that will operate entirely on-device, ensuring that personal data does not leave the user's iPhone.
This move by Apple reflects a growing industry trend towards privacy-centric technology solutions, where sensitive data is processed locally rather than being sent to the cloud. The initiative is part of Apple's broader strategy to differentiate its products by offering superior privacy protections compared to competitors that rely on cloud-based AI.
The report specifies that Apple's in-house large language model (LLM), known internally as "Ajax," will power the initial set of AI features. These features are expected to include enhancements to core applications such as Messages, Safari, Spotlight Search, and Siri. Notably, these improvements will be capable of functioning without an internet connection, catering to the increasing demand for offline AI capabilities.
While more complex AI tasks will eventually require online connectivity, the integration of on-device processing for basic functionalities marks a significant step in Apple's efforts to balance innovation with privacy.
Despite the trend towards using licensed AI technologies from companies like Google and OpenAI, Apple's decision to develop its proprietary technology underscores its commitment to maintaining control over the privacy and security of its user data.
As anticipation builds, Apple is set to unveil its full range of AI enhancements at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) starting on June 10. This development is expected to not only boost Apple's competitive edge in the tech industry but also set new standards for privacy in the era of AI.
