Apple's New Suite of AI Tools: Apple Intelligence Explained

Apple has recently introduced its new artificial intelligence tools aimed at enhancing user experience. To help customers get accustomed to these features, the tech corporation has started 15-minute briefings at its retail stores across the U.S., effective Wednesday.

This initiative centers on a suite of tools known as Apple Intelligence, designed to assist loyal iPhone users in various tasks, such as quickly composing emails, generating new emojis, and even removing ex-partners from photos.

Apple Intelligence is a significant feature of the latest operating system, which Apple believes will encourage existing customers to upgrade and purchase new devices. The new tools are prominently advertised in recent campaigns for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, including during high-profile events like the World Series.

Although AI tools have been accessible to many users for some time, making them available directly within the Apple ecosystem could hasten their mainstream acceptance. However, there is a possibility that some users may face a learning curve. Therefore, Apple Store employees are ready to guide customers as they familiarize themselves with these tools.

The initial set of features is compatible with devices such as the iPhone 15 Pro, iPad A17 Pro, and Macs powered by M1 or newer chips.

According to Rob Enderle, a principal analyst at Enderle Group, one challenge with new tools like Apple Intelligence is encouraging users to explore them. Many people have established habits, and as they age, they might be hesitant to try new offerings. Hence, motivating users to utilize these tools becomes crucial for assessing their value.

Enhancing Communication

The AI tools within Apple Intelligence aim to assist users on iPhones, Macs, and iPads with tasks such as proofreading and composing messages more efficiently.

For instance, if someone is organizing a sushi gathering, they can input basic details, and Apple Intelligence will help craft a complete invitation. Moreover, users can adjust the tone of their messages depending on whether they want them to sound more friendly or professional.

This technology also helps identify unanswered questions in emails, summarizes notes, and prioritizes urgent notifications, ensuring that important messages are not overlooked.

Creating and Editing Memories

The AI tools can assist users in locating specific pictures in their photo libraries and can create brief videos that capture memories. For example, a parent could input a description like, "Hannah and her bunny over the years," and the software would compile a slideshow from their photo collection accompanied by music.

Additionally, Apple Intelligence includes a photo editing feature that allows users to erase unwanted elements or individuals from their images. This means users can eliminate distractions like selfie sticks and photobombers—or even an ex from a picture.

Evolution of Siri

With these new tools, Apple’s voice assistant, Siri, is expected to perform better at understanding user requests, even if they are not articulated perfectly. Users will have the option to speak or type their questions to Siri.

For example, if a person tells Siri, "Set an alarm for — oh wait, no — set a timer for 10 minutes. Actually, I just thought about it, I can probably do it in five. Make it five minutes," the system is designed to comprehend the user's intent despite the confusion.

Custom Emojis at Your Fingertips

Another exciting feature of Apple Intelligence is its ability to allow users to design personalized emojis for use in messages. For instance, a user could describe an emoji they want, like "shrimp with a cowboy hat," and receive a corresponding emoji for their communications.

Apple has also announced that more Apple Intelligence tools will be unveiled in December. These upcoming features will include the capacity to generate emoji-like images based on photos and the potential to access ChatGPT through Siri.

Apple, AI, Technology