In December, Apple will release the 18.2 patch for iOS, unveiling updates under its new “Apple Intelligence” branding. However, many users are noticing that Apple’s latest AI features mirror those that Android has offered for years. Is this Apple’s strategy to catch up with Google, Samsung, and other AI-driven competitors? Let’s explore.
Apple’s New AI: A Catch-Up Strategy?
Apple’s latest advancements in AI include text/image generation, integration of ChatGPT with Siri, and enhanced image analysis capabilities. These features are undeniably appealing, but they come noticeably after competitors like Google and Samsung have rolled out similar capabilities.
In the latest 18.2 release, Apple is bringing ChatGPT integration to Siri. This update includes a new charging time estimation feature that Android users have had for years. While exciting for Apple fans, some may feel these features are long overdue in the world of AI-driven smartphones.
The Competitive AI Landscape: How Far Ahead Are Google’s Pixel and Samsung?
Apple’s major competitors have made significant strides in AI. Google’s Pixel devices, for example, offer real-time language translation, Magic Eraser photo tools, and predictive text.
Samsung has similarly enhanced its Bixby assistant, adding scene recognition and smart image analysis to its flagship devices. Both companies have been integrating such features for several years, giving them a substantial lead in smartphone AI.
Microsoft also enters the competition with AI-driven tools like Bing Chat and Copilot, which bring generative AI to document creation, analysis, and even customer service.
An industry expert observes, “Apple’s AI improvements may look groundbreaking within its ecosystem, but from a broader smartphone AI perspective, these are refinements of existing features users already experience on Android devices.”
Apple Intelligence or AI?
Apple has long been known for its marketing prowess, and the term “Apple Intelligence” is the latest example. With iOS 18, the company promises groundbreaking features only available on iPhone 15 and newer models.
However, many feel the iOS 18 features resemble those on Android devices, casting doubt on whether this is innovative AI or merely a rebranding effort.
With Apple discontinuing the iPhone 15, only the iPhone 16 models will support these AI-powered features. As 2024 comes to a close, many are still waiting for a stable rollout of Apple Intelligence capabilities.
New Features in iOS 18: Familiar to Android Users?
In iOS 18, Apple is introducing several features familiar to Android users:
- Customization: Apple users can now personalize their Home Screen, rearrange app icons, and customize the Control Center. These features, however, have been available on Android for some time.
- Call Recording: Apple finally offers built-in call recording, a feature Android users have enjoyed for years.
- App and Folder Security: Apple introduces password and Face ID security for individual apps, similar to Android’s Secure Folder.
Apple Intelligence vs. Android’s AI Features
Apple’s latest “Apple Intelligence” features bring interesting AI capabilities, but many of them are already seen on Android platforms:
- Writing Assistant: With iOS 18, Apple users can now rewrite text to fit different tones or styles. This is a recent addition to Samsung’s Galaxy AI.
- Summarization Tool: Apple’s new summarization tool provides concise email and content summaries. Android has offered similar tools, even integrating smart summaries into email notifications.
- Advanced Photo Editing: iOS 18’s photo editing tool allows users to remove unwanted objects, similar to the cleanup feature available on Samsung’s Galaxy S series.
- ChatGPT Integration: Apple’s Siri now integrates with ChatGPT, enhancing its intelligence. However, this follows similar AI implementations seen with Google’s Gemini and Microsoft’s Copilot.
- Generative AI Capabilities: Apple’s generative AI, including text-to-image and custom emoji generation, mirrors features available in Android’s ecosystem, albeit with Apple’s unique branding.
- Call Transcription: Apple’s latest update also includes call transcription, a feature that has existed on Android for some time, providing voice-to-text transcriptions for calls and voicemails.
Recognizing Missed Opportunities in Apple’s AI Journey
While it’s common for companies to mirror each other’s features, Apple’s slower adoption of these AI technologies has been surprising. Apple’s decision to brand its AI offerings as “Apple Intelligence” instead of using the term “AI” has led to questions about the originality of these features.
One major advantage of Apple’s approach is its ability to take existing technology and refine it for seamless user experiences. With Apple Intelligence, users may expect a more secure, streamlined experience in Apple’s tightly integrated ecosystem. Apple’s integration of AI may yet deliver unique value over time, though it will likely rely on further optimization through iOS 18.1 and 18.2 patches.
A Look Ahead
Apple is gradually rolling out Apple Intelligence to over 300 million devices, with full support expected for 15 languages by mid-2025. The company may still find ways to differentiate itself in AI by prioritizing security and refining user experience across its ecosystem.
While Apple may be playing a game of catch-up in AI, the company’s focus on user-centric design could ultimately allow it to redefine smartphone AI standards.
