Apple's chip development strategy is taking a significant leap forward with its forthcoming A18 Pro chip, rumored to offer unprecedented AI performance capabilities. Insights from Apple's supply chain suggest the A18 Pro chip will have a larger die area, facilitating enhanced AI processing power. This advancement is pivotal for integrating more complex Neural Engine capabilities, laying the groundwork for superior on-device AI functionalities.
Jeff Pu from Haitong International Technology Research indicates that this upgrade is a clear move towards bolstering AI operations within Apple devices. It aligns with Apple's ambition to combine in-device AI with technologies like the rumored Google's Gemini AI, potentially revolutionizing AI features in the 2024 iPhone lineup.
The A18 Pro is highlighted for its 6 GPU core configuration, pointing to the existence of a less powerful A18 variant. This distinction between the chips suggests a stratification in the upcoming iPhone 16 series, where the A18 Pro will be exclusive to the higher-end iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max models. These devices are expected to showcase advanced AI capabilities, whereas the standard iPhone 16 and 16 Plus might feature the regular A18 chip, offering more limited AI functionalities.
This development reflects Apple's continuous effort to lead in innovation, particularly in enhancing AI and machine learning experiences directly on users' devices. By adopting the A18 Pro chip across its premium models, Apple aims to set a new standard for smartphone performance and intelligence, further distinguishing its high-end products in the competitive market.
