Apple has launched its second wave of Apple Intelligence features, marking a significant milestone in its approach to artificial intelligence. The rollout, which took place on December 12, 2024, includes improvements to Siri and various apps on iPhone, iPad and Mac. The updates are designed to improve user experience and may impact Apple’s stock performance.
Apple rolls out new AI features to improve user experience
The new features include the integration of OpenAI ChatGPT in Siri and writing tools, allowing users to effortlessly harness the capabilities of generative AI. Additional tools like Picture Playground and Genmoji allow users to create custom images and emojis. Improvements to the Notes app allow users to refine sketches into polished images. The new camera features will also improve productivity by providing instant information about the surroundings to iPhone 16 and 16 Pro users.
These updates are bundled into the latest versions of the operating system: iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 and macOS Sequoia 15.2. Apple is expanding Apple Intelligence accessibility to more regions, starting with English localized support for countries like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and plans to add additional languages over time. next year.
Analysts at Evercore ISI maintain an “Outperform” rating on Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL), convincing investors that these AI developments will contribute to future growth. Despite a perceived lag in the AI race compared to its competitors, Apple’s commitment to integrating advanced AI capabilities could signal a rally in stock prices. The current stock environment shows Apple slightly underperforming the S&P, which analysts attribute to high expectations surrounding AI initiatives.
Apple recently overcome temporary sales problems in China, with iPhone sales rebounding despite delays in Apple Intelligence rollout. Even though growth rates may moderate, the company’s large user base remains crucial to its ecosystem. Investors are cautioned that iPhone sales alone will not dictate future revenue; they should also consider services like AppleCare, Apple Pay, and iTunes in their analyses.
Data suggests Apple stock has reached record highs, peaking at 250.80. The last trading point reached 237.49, indicating positive momentum for the next quarter. With continued hedge fund interest (158 hedge fund portfolios held AAPL at the end of the second quarter), there is optimism about Apple’s potential as a leading AI investment, although some analysts see more promises in other AI stocks for immediate returns.
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