Apple to Revamp Siri and Introduce New AI Features with iOS 18.4 Update
Apple’s longstanding virtual assistant, Siri, is set to undergo significant upgrades as part of the company’s new suite of artificial intelligence features, dubbed “Apple Intelligence.” Announced during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024, these enhancements are expected to roll out with the iOS 18.4 update in Spring 2025, according to a recent report.
The Roadmap to Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence is the company’s latest push to integrate artificial intelligence more deeply into its ecosystem of devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Although the initial public release of iOS 18 is slated for September 2024, most of the AI features will not be available until early 2025. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has confirmed that while some features will debut gradually, the complete rollout of Apple Intelligence should be expected by the first half of 2025.
What Will Apple Intelligence Offer?
Apple Intelligence promises a range of advanced features designed to make user interaction more intuitive and efficient. Powered by both on-device computing and Apple’s secure cloud technology called Apple Private Cloud, the highlights include:
- Text and content generation tools powered by OpenAI’s ChatGPT
- Contextual understanding in Siri for better comprehension of natural language
- Integration of advanced AI capabilities across native Apple apps
ChatGPT Integration and Siri Upgrades
A key component of Apple Intelligence is the integration of ChatGPT, OpenAI’s popular conversational chatbot. This addition aims to enhance Siri’s generative AI capabilities, allowing for more sophisticated responses and handling of complex tasks. Users will be able to experience these functionalities across both iPhone and Mac operating systems.
The upgraded Siri will be capable of performing detailed actions within apps. For example, users can ask Siri to open documents, send or delete emails, summarize articles, and more. These capabilities will leverage the generative power of ChatGPT to deliver a more responsive and useful virtual assistant.
New Siri Interface and Functionality
Alongside the AI improvements, Siri is getting a visual makeover. The current circle graphic will be replaced with a glowing light that wraps around the edges of the screen when Siri is activated. This new design aims to provide users with a more engaging experience while interacting with the assistant.
Moreover, Siri will exhibit onscreen awareness, enabling it to perform tasks based on the content displayed. This means Siri can take actions that are more contextually relevant, improving the overall user experience.
When and Where Will These Features Be Available?
While the comprehensive Apple Intelligence features are set to roll out in Spring 2025 with the iOS 18.4 update, Apple has already initiated beta testing phases from this fall. Some features will be made available earlier, albeit in a limited form. The full range of capabilities will require newer hardware, including iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and devices equipped with Apple Silicon M series chips.
What’s Coming This September?
In the meantime, users won’t be left empty-handed. The September update of iOS 18 will introduce:
- Initial integration of ChatGPT
- New Siri interface with the glowing edge design
- Basic tech support capabilities within Siri
Looking Ahead
Apple’s move to incorporate more advanced AI features represents its ongoing commitment to staying ahead in the technology space. By partnering with OpenAI and investing in both on-device and cloud-based AI technologies, Apple aims to make its devices smarter, more intuitive, and more helpful for users. As with all major updates, some features might launch sooner while others will require a bit more patience, but the wait seems to promise a significantly enhanced user experience.
Stay tuned for more updates on Apple Intelligence and the latest enhancements coming to Siri and other Apple products.