Apple’s 2024 annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) kicked off with a series of major announcements, including the launch of iOS 18, macOS updates and more. However, the highlight of the event was the introduction of a revamped and highly anticipated version of Siri. Enhanced by advanced generative AI through a new system called “Apple Intelligence,” this updated Siri aims to deliver more natural, contextual, and deeply integrated experiences within Apple’s ecosystem.
Transformative Powers of AI
New AI capabilities significantly improve Siri’s functionality, making it smarter and more intuitive. This transformation includes the integration of ChatGPT, promising more sophisticated responses and new AI-driven features. Apple describes the revamped Siri as “more natural, more contextually relevant and more personal,” with the ability to streamline and speed up everyday tasks.
New design
The updated Siri features a new design with a bright light that wraps around the edges of the screen when activated, creating a more engaging user experience. Beyond aesthetics, Siri now has on-screen awareness, allowing it to perform actions based on the content displayed. For example, users can ask Siri to add a new address from a text message directly to a contact card or to find and act on book recommendations sent via Messages or Mail.
Improved language understanding
Siri now has richer language understanding capabilities, allowing it to process and respond to user commands more naturally. This improvement ensures that Siri can maintain context across multiple interactions, even if users stumble over their words. Additionally, users can now type into Siri and seamlessly switch between text and voice inputs, providing more flexible ways to interact with the assistant.
Integration with third-party applications
One of the most notable features of the new Siri is its ability to act on a wide range of applications, both from Apple and third-party developers, thanks to the new App Intents API. This means developers can enable Siri to perform specific tasks within their apps. For example, users can ask Siri to “make this photo stand out” in a photo editing app or “send Malia’s Saturday barbecue photos” via a messaging app. This expanded functionality allows for smoother interactions between different applications and services.
Partnership with OpenAI
Apple notably partnered with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT technology into Siri, significantly strengthening its generative AI capabilities. This integration allows Siri to handle more complex tasks and provide more sophisticated responses. Users will be able to access ChatGPT through updates to Apple’s iPhone and Mac operating systems, improving features such as text and content generation. This partnership is part of Apple’s strategy to integrate advanced AI technologies and remain competitive in the technology landscape.
Privacy Guarantee
Apple has reassured users that its devices’ new AI capabilities and Siri will meet its strict privacy standards. While some AI features will process data on the device itself, more power-intensive tasks will rely on the cloud without storing user data there. This approach aligns with Apple’s commitment to balancing enhanced features with user privacy.
Device availability
This advanced Siri experience will be available exclusively on the latest iPhones, iPads and Macs. Powered by Apple Intelligence, the majority of Siri’s new features will only be available on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, as well as iPads and Macs equipped with M1 or later chips. This selective availability ensures that only devices with the necessary processing power can exploit the full potential of Siri’s new features.
