Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) has just wrapped up, and a surge of excitement surrounds the focus on artificial intelligence (AI) innovations. According to their recent announcement, AI will play a huge role in the upcoming IOS 18 update, particularly through significant enhancements to Siri, Apple’s longstanding voice assistant.
Since its introduction with the iPhone 4s, Siri has become a staple feature across a wide range of Apple devices. However, the next iteration of Siri, set to debut with iOS 18, promises to revolutionise the way users interact with their devices. The upgrade will enable Siri to control various elements within apps directly through voice commands—a leap forward in usability and functionality.
The traditional method of interacting with apps—physically tapping the screen—is set to become less necessary. Users will be able to issue voice commands to Siri to perform specific tasks within an application. For example, Siri could be asked to open a particular file, send an email, or execute any number of precise operations within apps. Initially, this capability will be restricted to Apple’s in-house applications, and users will be able to issue only one command at a time. However, a subsequent update is expected to expand Siri’s capabilities, allowing it to perform multiple tasks in sequence. Imagine moving a file from one location to another, cropping a photo, and then emailing it—all through voice commands.
To achieve this, Apple has reportedly revamped Siri’s underlying software architecture, integrating large language models (LLMs) that enhance its understanding and responsiveness. This upgrade will extend beyond command execution, allowing Siri to take on generative AI tasks such as summarising lengthy articles or managing a series of notes, adding significant value to its functionality.
The enhancement of Siri with these capabilities not only boosts its utility but also brings it on par with competitors like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant, which have traditionally been perceived as more versatile in terms of voice interaction.
In addition to these technical upgrades, there’s been speculation, following a report by The Information, about a partnership between Apple and OpenAI. While the exact nature of this collaboration remains unclear, it’s anticipated that Apple may integrate ChatGPT-like technologies into its platforms. However, it appears more likely that Apple’s improvements to Siri’s app integration and control capabilities are being developed internally rather than directly incorporating an external LLM like ChatGPT.
For developers, the advancements in Siri and the broader application of AI at WWDC 2024 will likely introduce new tools and APIs for building more interactive and intuitive applications. These tools will provide developers with the means to integrate more complex AI functionalities into their apps, enhancing user engagement and satisfaction.
The implications are hugely beneficial for consumers. The enhanced Siri promises a more seamless, efficient, and user-friendly experience, reducing the friction typically associated with digital multitasking. It aligns with Apple’s goal of creating technology that complements human behaviour, thereby making technology more accessible and enjoyable.
With all the buzz from Apple’s recent announcement, it’s evident that 2024 will be heavily centred on AI advancements across all of Apple’s ecosystems. This shift not only highlights the company’s commitment to innovation but also promises to enhance the overall functionality and user experience of Apple’s products, potentially changing how we interact with technology in our everyday lives.
