Apple May Introduce On-Device AI Features with iOS 18, Potentially Raising Costs

Apple might be planning a significant upgrade for its iPhone devices with the upcoming iOS 18 update. A new report suggests that the Cupertino-based tech giant is working on introducing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) features for its smartphones, which are expected to be unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 in June. Interestingly, these AI features might be available on-device rather than cloud-based. Notably, a recent report highlighted that Apple could introduce a new AI-powered browsing feature for Safari, allowing users to summarise web pages.

The information comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter, where he addressed questions about how much of Apple’s planned AI features might be cloud-based. According to Gurman, Apple could make all the AI features available locally, processing them on the device itself. This approach, if implemented, could have both advantages and disadvantages, depending on how Apple addresses potential issues related to on-device AI features.

Having AI features entirely local offers significant benefits for privacy and data security. This means any data shared with the app or system feature remains on the user’s iPhone and is unlikely to reach third parties. This enhances the device’s security and ensures that users do not have to worry about their sensitive data being exposed.

However, implementing AI features locally could also present challenges. On-device processing might require more powerful hardware and could potentially increase the cost of the devices. Moreover, it could affect the performance and battery life of the iPhones if not optimized correctly. Apple will need to balance these factors to ensure that the new AI features enhance the user experience without compromising device efficiency.

The potential for new AI capabilities in iOS 18 reflects Apple’s commitment to innovation and user privacy. By processing AI tasks on-device, Apple can offer a more secure and private experience for users, aligning with its long-standing focus on protecting user data. As we approach WWDC 2024, more details are likely to emerge, providing a clearer picture of how Apple plans to integrate these advanced AI features into its ecosystem.

Apple might be planning a big upgrade for its iPhone devices with the iOS 18 update. A new report has revealed that the Cupertino-based tech giant is working on introducing artificial intelligence (AI) features for its smartphones at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024, expected to be held in June. Interestingly, the company might make all of the AI features available on-device, instead of keeping them cloud-based. Notably, a report last week highlighted that Apple could unveil a new AI-powered browsing feature for Safari which will let users summarise web pages.

The information comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman’s Power On newsletter, where he answered the question of how much of Apple’s planned AI features might be cloud-based. As per Gurman, not much at all! The tech giant could make all the features available locally and have it processed on-device itself. This move, if true, can have both upsides and downsides depending on how the iPhone maker handles the issues with AI features.