Apple is reportedly entering the AI race by developing its own artificial-intelligence tool called Apple GPT, which is expected to be a major competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard. According to Bloomberg, Apple has completed the foundational work for its large language models, known as Ajax, which serves as the basis for its conversational AI technology.
The development of Apple’s own AI tools indicates CEO Tim Cook’s intention to directly compete with the leading players in the AI field. With Ajax, Apple aims to stay at the forefront of generative AI technology as it rapidly advances. Utilizing this framework, the company has already created a chatbot similar to ChatGPT, referred to internally as Apple GPT.
Apple’s foray into AI tools aligns with its efforts to capitalize on the AI trend and rival tech giants like Google and Microsoft, who have recently launched their own AI chatbots. During a February earnings call, Cook expressed the company’s recognition of the potential impact AI could have on its products and services, stating, We see enormous potential in this space to affect virtually everything we do.
While Apple has already integrated AI into features such as fall detection on certain Apple Watch models and crash detection on specific devices, the company has taken a cautious approach to AI deployment, prioritizing thorough safety testing. Cook emphasized the importance of being deliberate and thoughtful in embracing AI technology during a May earnings call.
However, some tech analysts believe Apple lags behind its competitors in the AI arena, particularly with its voice assistant Siri, which is considered less advanced than the latest generative AI tools available. Michael Gartenberg, a tech analyst and strategist, noted that Apple has transitioned from being a leader in AI to a follower.
Despite differing opinions, the news of Apple’s AI developments had a positive impact on the company’s stock, which rose approximately 0.8% following the Bloomberg report. As Apple continues to refine its AI capabilities, it remains to be seen how the company will catch up in this highly competitive field.
As Apple enters the AI market, it faces the challenge of establishing itself amidst already well-established competitors. However, their reputation for innovation and dedication to user safety positions them to make an impact in the evolving AI landscape. With Apple GPT on the horizon, consumers may soon witness the company’s leap forward, bringing conversational AI to the forefront of Apple products and services.
