iOS 18: Your iPhone may soon have ChatGPT

Apple Inc. is nearing a deal with OpenAI to integrate the startup’s technology into the iPhone, as part of a broader initiative to enhance its devices with artificial intelligence capabilities. Discussions have intensified regarding incorporating ChatGPT features into iOS 18, the upcoming iPhone operating system, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the matter. Concurrently, Apple is also reportedly engaged in talks with Google about licensing its Gemini chatbot, although no agreement has been reached yet.

Apple Worldwide Developers Conference

The potential collaboration with OpenAI could enable Apple to introduce a popular chatbot as part of its forthcoming AI-driven features, scheduled for announcement next month. Apple is gearing up to make significant strides in the field of artificial intelligence at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June. The company plans to unveil new AI features, some of which will be powered by data centers equipped with its proprietary processors. CEO Tim Cook had earlier expressed his personal use of OpenAI’s ChatGPT while acknowledging the need to address certain issues. He assured that Apple would introduce AI features thoughtfully, leveraging its unique integration of hardware, software, and services.

Apple's AI focus

During a recent earnings call, Cook emphasized Apple’s confidence in its AI capabilities, citing the company's distinctive combination of seamless integration across its ecosystem. Apple had introduced Siri in 2011 but generative AI has become a pivotal focus within Apple, driving internal initiatives and redefining its approach to AI development.

The forthcoming updates to Siri, expected to be showcased at the developers conference, is expected to feature a more conversational and versatile interface, powered by a new generative AI system. This represents a broader shift towards embracing generative AI throughout Apple’s ecosystem, including increased memory support in new iPhones to accommodate enhanced Siri capabilities. Discussions about licensing complementary AI models from various companies, including Google, Cohere, and OpenAI, are also underway.

Apple’s leadership is cognizant of the threat posed by advancing AI technology to its market dominance. There is concern that failure to develop its own AI ecosystem could jeopardize the iPhone’s position in the smartphone market. This urgency has led Apple to reallocate resources, including the cancellation of a significant self-driving car project, to prioritize AI development, New York Times had reported.