Apple introduces ChatGPT to iPhones in AI upgrade
Apple is set to bolster its Siri voice assistant and operating systems by integrating OpenAI’s ChatGPT, signaling its determination to compete in the AI arena. This initiative was unveiled at Apple’s annual developers’ conference, where the company showcased a range of new features, including a revamped Siri, as part of its “Apple Intelligence” personalized AI system. The objective is to provide users with a more intuitive way to navigate Apple devices.
Updates to both the iPhone and Mac operating systems will enable access to ChatGPT through a strategic partnership with OpenAI. ChatGPT’s capabilities extend beyond enhancing Siri; it can also improve other tools like text and content generation. A test version is slated for release in the autumn.
During the conference’s opening address at Cupertino, California, Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed confidence that this move would elevate the company’s products to new heights. However, despite Cook’s optimism, Apple’s share price experienced a slight decline of 1.91% on the day of the announcement. Furthermore, the partnership faced criticism from Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and Twitter/X, who voiced concerns over data security, threatening to ban iPhones from his companies.
While Apple has yet to respond to Musk’s allegations, its competitor Samsung seized the opportunity to mock the announcement, emphasizing the need for Apple to catch up in the AI domain. This challenge is particularly pertinent given Apple’s recent displacement as the world’s most valuable company by Microsoft in January and subsequently by chip-maker Nvidia in early June.
Regarding the “Apple Intelligence” system, Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight, believes that while it may reassure investors, the integration of ChatGPT could potentially reveal deeper challenges for Apple. Unlike a standalone product or app, “Apple Intelligence” will seamlessly integrate into every app and Apple product, offering personalized assistance across various tasks, akin to Microsoft’s AI assistant Copilot, albeit without additional charges.
As part of this initiative, Siri has undergone a makeover, featuring a refreshed interface and a more conversational approach to aid users in navigating their devices and apps seamlessly. However, some analysts, including Mr. Wood, suggest that Apple’s reliance on ChatGPT highlights the limitations of Siri, particularly when users require more advanced assistance beyond Siri’s capabilities.