Apple to Open Up Underlying AI Technology to Developers
Apple announced it will open its underlying AI technology at WWDC, focusing on practical improvements like live translations and app integrations, along with a redesign of operating systems using a ‘liquid glass’ aesthetic. Key features like Call Screening and new naming conventions for OS versions demonstrate Apple’s commitment to enhancing user experience and engagement.
Apple’s big announcement on Monday at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) was about opening up their AI technology to third-party developers. This move, which catches the eye, seems to show a different approach than Apple’s usual innovative fanfare, with instead a focus on making daily tasks a bit easier—think live translations for phone calls and improved tools for developers.
Craig Federighi, Apple’s software chief, explained that the company is finally letting developers play with its underlying AI model, which powers several of its features. He noted that some enhancements, like those for Siri, took longer than expected to ensure Apple’s high standards were met. “This work needed more time to reach our high-quality bar,” he remarked.
In a notable demonstration, Apple rolled out image generation capabilities from OpenAI’s ChatGPT within its Image Playground app, ensuring that user data stays private unless users consent to share it with OpenAI. It’s all about working with partners to enhance user experience while maintaining privacy, a balance that Apple is often keen to emphasize.
But it wasn’t just AI news. The company is also tackling multiple technical and regulatory challenges revealing an extensive redesign across its operating systems, now described as “liquid glass.” This sleek design features partial transparency in icons and menus, which is a significant change not just cosmetically but also functionally, thanks to the more powerful custom chips Apple has developed over the years.
In addition, there’s a shift in how Apple will name its operating systems moving forward. Instead of numbers tied to versions, they will adopt year names, simplifying a naming structure that has become convoluted due to staggered launches of systems across phones, watches, and other devices. Federighi noted that the new design will affect iPhones, Macs, and other Apple products.
One of the more intriguing features on the table is the forthcoming “Call Screening.” This option allows iPhones to automatically answer calls from unknown numbers and inquire about the reason for the call. Once a caller states their intention, the iPhone will transcribe the reason and ring the owner—making it a potential game-changer in how we handle unsolicited calls.
Further enhancing communication, Apple also announced live translation for phone calls, which works even if the other caller isn’t using an iPhone. This feature allows seamless conversations across language barriers—a move that could open doors for global connectivity.
Last but not least, Apple’s Visual Intelligence app is getting a boost. It helps users find similar items by pointing their iPhone cameras at them and now extends this functionality to analyze items displayed on the iPhone screen. Say you spot a jacket online; this app can help locate similar ones available through the apps you already have installed, making shopping even more interactive and user-friendly.
In conclusion, Apple is opening new doors with its AI technology for developers, focusing on enhancing user experience rather than just chasing flashy innovations. With a bold redesign across its operating systems, the change to year-based naming conventions aims to simplify user navigation. Together, features like Call Screening and live translation represent Apple’s commitment to convenience and connectivity, all while ensuring user privacy. It’s an interesting time to watch how these developments unfold.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
