Apple's AI Overhaul: Siri Set for Major Revamp to Control All App Functions!

Apple is set to launch a significant upgrade to its virtual assistant, Siri, leveraging advanced artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance functionality across various applications. This update will enable users to control app features using voice commands and manage tasks within apps for the first time. Achieving this requires substantial updates to Siri's software, incorporating large language models—key technology behind generative AI. This strategic initiative aims to help Apple regain ground in the AI arena, competing directly with services like Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant.

The enhancements will be part of Apple's larger AI strategy, which will be detailed at the upcoming Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). New features are expected to include voice memo transcription, summaries, quick reviews of websites, automated message replies, advanced photo editing, and AI-generated emojis.

At WWDC, a major focus will be on how Siri improves functionality on iPhones and iPads. The new system is designed for precise controls, enabling tasks such as opening specific documents, moving notes, managing emails, accessing articles in Apple News, and summarizing content. Currently, Siri's abilities are limited to simpler tasks like playing music or retrieving information. The proposed upgrade aims to analyze user behavior on devices and activate relevant functions accordingly, starting with Apple's own applications and expanding to hundreds of commands.

Insiders indicate that this project is among Apple's most complex AI undertakings, with a planned release slated for next year as part of iOS 18 updates. The operating system's initial version is expected to arrive in September, coinciding with the launch of the new iPhone models. Initially, Siri will handle one command at a time, but there are plans to allow users to string commands together. For instance, users could request a meeting note summary and convert it into a message, or crop a photo and send it via email.

The upgrade aims to reinvigorate Siri, which, since its launch in 2011, has fallen behind competitors like Alexa and Google Assistant. Apple was reportedly exploring a deal with OpenAI to integrate its chatbot technologies into iOS and is currently in discussions with Alphabet Inc. regarding its Gemini software.

Craig Federighi, Apple's software chief, has urged the team to prioritize the development of new AI features for this year's operating system update. Meanwhile, Apple faces a sales slowdown, with its stock performance trailing peers. Shares have risen approximately 3% in 2024, compared to a 12% increase in the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 index. Apple is relying on these new AI features for iPhones, iPads, and Macs, along with Siri's enhancements, to encourage device upgrades. However, many of these capabilities will require at least an iPhone 15 Pro or newer models, while Macs and iPads will need an M1 chip or better.