When it comes to technology, the co-founders of Workflow are not satisfied with the status quo. Ari Weinstein and Conrad Kramer, who were part of the team behind Workflow before it was acquired by Apple, have now embarked on a new venture called Software Applications Incorporated. Together with Kim Beverett, a former Apple employee, they aim to bring generative AI to the desktop, with the goal of revolutionizing operating systems.
In their first interview since leaving Apple, Weinstein, Kramer, and Beverett shared their vision with The Verge. They are currently focused on prototyping with large language models such as OpenAI’s GPT and Meta’s Llama 2. Their objective is to recreate the sense of wonder and possibility that early computer users experienced in the ’80s and ’90s.
Weinstein reminisced about the days when users could program computers to do whatever they wanted, typing in code on basic consoles like those found on the Apple II and Atari. He contrasted that flexibility with the present, where optimized operating systems and user-friendly software often lack the necessary flexibility to meet specific needs. The trio believes that language models and AI could unlock the true power of computing for everyday people, enabling them to solve problems more effectively.
An example provided by Weinstein illustrates the frustration many users encounter. Imagine having a browser window open with a schedule and wanting to add an event to your calendar seamlessly. In many cases, there is no straightforward way to achieve this. With their new venture, Weinstein, Kramer, and Beverett seek to develop a new type of software that integrates generative AI more deeply into users’ desktop experiences, empowering them to leverage the full potential of their computers.
Although they have not yet unveiled a product, the trio is well-equipped to tackle the challenge. Their expertise and experience with Workflow and other Apple projects make them ideal candidates to bridge the gap between generative AI and personalized, integrated computer workflows. With their unique insights, they could redefine the boundaries of what is possible with AI-powered software.
As the details of Weinstein, Kramer, and Beverett’s new venture continue to unfold, it is essential to pay attention to their progress. The potential for generative AI to transform not only the desktop experience but also how we interact with our computers and solve problems presents an exciting opportunity. In an era of increasingly optimized and user-friendly software, the vision of Weinstein and his colleagues could be a refreshing return to the magic of early computing.
Although there is much anticipation surrounding their work, we will have to wait patiently for more information on what Software Applications Incorporated will bring to the table. In the meantime, the tech world eagerly awaits the chance to witness the revival of the ’80s and ’90s computing magic in a modern, AI-powered context.
