Apple and OpenAI are on the verge of finalizing a deal that could introduce ChatGPT’s generative AI technology to iOS 18. A recent report, although sparse on specifics, suggests that the two tech giants are in the last stages of their negotiations.
While competitors have faced criticism for scraping public sources for data, Apple has taken a different approach. It has paid millions to publishers for access to news archives
The same report also mentions ongoing discussions between Apple and Google regarding Gemini, but the progress of these talks remains unclear.
Hints from a Bloomberg report suggest an impending agreement, seemingly aligning with Apple’s rumored strategy to launch an AI App Store. The tech giant reportedly plans to offer compact, on-device models of its own design while outsourcing larger language models (LLMs) to established companies like Google.
As always, it’s wise to approach these rumors about Apple’s AI plans with caution. Six years ago, Apple brought on board John Giannandrea, an AI and search expert, after his eight-year stint at Google where he worked on machine learning for the search engine behemoth.
Apple’s AI initiatives have been in the works for a while. Since 2023, shortly after that year’s WWDC, expectations have been high for Apple to unveil its AI efforts at the next WWDC. Predictions include the introduction of AI-assisted browsing in Safari, a more conversational and versatile Siri, and a generative AI system for chat capabilities.
Apple intends to leverage its on-device processing as a significant selling point for customers. This was highlighted during a recent iPad event, where Apple stated that it has been equipping devices with AI hardware optimizations for years.
There’s also been substantial talk about Ajax, an LLM that could potentially perform many functions that Siri can. For instance, Apple plans to offer text summarization that analyzes contact involvement and provides smarter results to Spotlight.
News has also emerged about a similar technology expected to be integrated system-wide to assist in summarizing voice notes and other audio sources. This feature is also expected to operate on-device.
While competitors have faced criticism for scraping public sources for data, Apple has taken a different approach. It has paid millions to publishers for access to news archives, ensuring its AI training remains ethical.
