Apple’s latest iPhone operating system, iOS 18, is poised for a major transformation, set to be revealed at the WWDC 2024 developer conference later this month. Reports suggest that iOS 18 will be the most significant upgrade in Apple’s history, featuring extensive use of generative AI to enhance many key apps.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the Settings app in iOS 18 will receive a complete redesign, featuring a cleaner interface, better organization, and improved search functionality. Additionally, the Control Centre will be updated with a new ‘Now Playing’ music widget and expanded HomeKit smart home controls.
Generative AI Integration:
In his Power On newsletter, Gurman also noted that Apple plans to integrate generative AI into several core apps, including Photos, Messages, Notes, and Safari. This integration is expected to bring significant improvements and new functionalities.
Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, is set for a major AI-powered overhaul. Using Apple’s own Large Language Model (LLM), Siri could soon support individual features within apps for the first time.
Recent reports indicate that Apple has signed a major deal with OpenAI to bring generative AI capabilities to iOS 18. Many of these new features are expected to operate on-device, potentially setting Apple apart from its competitors.
Advantages of On-Device AI:
On-device AI offers several advantages, such as enhanced privacy, the ability to function offline or in areas with poor internet connectivity, and faster response times. However, on-device large language models (LLMs) are generally less powerful and knowledgeable compared to those supported by massive servers with billions of parameters, like commercial chatbots such as ChatGPT or Gemini.