1. Apple’s AI features in iOS 18 will use on-device processing and a large language model running locally, without relying on cloud services like its competitors.
2. The iPhone maker’s privacy-conscious approach has led them to explore alternatives to cloud processing for AI, including new AI models like Ferret-UI and AI-capable chips like M4.
3. Some advanced features in iOS 18, such as image or text generation, may still require cloud processing and third-party partnerships, but the initial wave of features will work entirely on the device for security and offline capabilities.
Apple’s upcoming iOS 18 update will feature artificial intelligence services that will run on-device using a large language model rather than in the cloud like its competitors. This move is in line with Apple’s privacy-conscious approach, as sending sensitive data to the cloud poses risks. The new AI models, such as Ferret-UI, will use advanced AI-capable chips like the M4 to analyze phone screens. Apple’s focus on on-device processing will make it a leader in the AI space.
The company has heavily invested in AI-capable hardware and AI services running on its neural engine, including Siri functionality and transcription services. Apple’s AI research division has developed new models to maximize the processing power of its own silicon, outperforming competitors like OpenAI’s GPT-4. By performing tasks on-device rather than sending data to the cloud, Apple’s AI features will be more secure and can even run offline, although they may be slower for complex requests.
Some rumored features for iOS 18 include image generation and longer-form text generation in tools like messages and Keynote, which may still require cloud processing through third-party services. Apple is reportedly in talks with AI companies like OpenAI, Google, and Baidu for potential integrations into its ecosystem. The update is expected to include AI features in the health app and other applications like Apple Music and Keynote, similar to functionality already available in Google Docs and Microsoft Word.