Apple Reveals New AI Efforts, Considers Partnership with Google
(CNN) — Apple has finally shared some insight into its advancements in artificial intelligence. According to Apple researchers, the tech giant has developed a family of multimodal models, labeled MM1, that are able to interpret and generate various types of data simultaneously, such as text and images. These new methods are said to possess “superior abilities” and offer advanced reasoning and in-context learning for improved responses to text and images.
The announcement hints at how this AI system could enhance future Apple products, including iPhones, Macs, and the Siri voice assistant. This news comes just ahead of Apple’s upcoming developer conference in June, where the company is expected to unveil several new AI features.
However, reports have surfaced indicating that Apple may be considering a partnership with Google to bolster its AI capabilities. Apple is reportedly in talks to license and integrate Google’s Gemini AI engine, featuring chatbots and other AI tools, into upcoming iPhones and the iOS 18 platform. This move could help Apple catch up with other tech companies that have made significant advancements in AI.
As the AI arms race intensifies, Apple’s involvement has been relatively limited compared to its competitors. The potential partnership with Google could propel Apple forward in this rapidly evolving field. Apple has also reportedly engaged in discussions with OpenAI, the company behind the popular chatbot ChatGPT.
Apple CEO Tim Cook previously alluded to the company’s focus on generative AI during an investor meeting in February. Apple has been working on enhancing its on-device generative AI capabilities and has acquired companies, such as Canadian startup DarwinAI, to further its AI research efforts.
Analysts see the potential partnership between Apple and Google as mutually beneficial. Google could gain access to Apple’s vast user base, while Apple could leverage Google’s advanced AI technology to enhance its iOS features. This collaboration could potentially bring Gemini to nearly 2 billion Apple devices.
The tech industry eagerly anticipates the outcome of this possible partnership and how it could shape the future of AI technology on Apple devices. Apple, Google, and OpenAI have not yet provided comments on these reports.