Tag: Siri

  • Apple WWDC reveal: interesting but not typical Apple

    Apple WWDC reveal: interesting but not typical Apple

    Key Takeaway

    – Apple cut specific audio frequencies (3kHz-6kHz) during WWDC when “Siri” was mentioned to prevent device activations
    – The tactic was largely ineffective, as many viewers reported their Apple devices still woke up during the livestream
    – This frequency-muting approach is not unique; Amazon used a similar method for “Alexa” in 2017, and other brands do it too

    Apple’s WWDC Tweak: Keeping Siri at Bay

    Apple made some interesting tweaks so that you could have an uninterrupted WWDC livestream. To avoid countless Apple device activations, the Cupertino giant tweaked frequencies when ‘Siri’ or ‘Siri AI’ was mentioned. How efficient those tweaks were is questionable at best, as pointed out by viewers.

    The Frequency Cutting Technique

    A user named ‘luuk de leest’ shared on X that during the keynote, Apple cut out 3kHz, 4kHz, 5kHz, and 6kHz frequencies every time the phrase ‘Siri’ was mentioned. This was done to avoid unnecessary activations on the viewers’ devices. The user shared a spectrogram screenshot showing blank spots in the claimed frequencies when ‘Siri’ was mentioned. Furthermore, they mention HomePods in particular, but the tweak should have affected all devices in the ecosystem.

    It Didn’t Quite Work Out

    Unfortunately, it didn’t really work as intended, and several commenters mentioned that their iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, and even HomePods were woken up several times during the keynote. It is possible that without the tweak, the activations may have been even worse.

    Not a New Trick in the Book

    As interesting as it is, this tweaking is not new. Apple isn’t the first or the only one doing this, as back in 2017, it was found that Amazon did the same with its commercials when ‘Alexa’ was mentioned. Other brands do it as well, to prevent unnecessary smart speaker activations.

     

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  • Apple to Power Siri with Google Gemini on Nvidia B200 GPUs

    Apple to Power Siri with Google Gemini on Nvidia B200 GPUs

    Key Takeaway

    – Apple is partnering with Nvidia to use Blackwell Superchips via Google Cloud to upgrade Siri.
    – Siri queries will be processed using Google’s Gemini model on Nvidia hardware for enhanced capabilities.
    – Nvidia’s confidential computing feature encrypts data during processing, ensuring privacy from Apple, Google, and Nvidia.
    – The overhaul aims to add multi-step reasoning, deeper app integration, and better context understanding to Siri.
    – The updated Siri is scheduled to launch in September.

    Apple and Nvidia Team Up for a Smarter Siri

    In a recent report, Apple may be partnering with Nvidia to use its powerful Blackwell Superchips, which power Google Cloud, to give Siri a major overhaul, finally delivering a worthy upgrade that Apple’s long-time assistant deserves. According to a report by The Information, some iPhone users’ queries to the new Siri will be routed through Google Cloud and executed on a licensed version of Google’s Gemini model, using Nvidia’s Blackwell B200 data center GPUs. Apple has reportedly approved Nvidia’s computing technology, which encrypts data while it is actively being processed on those chips.

    Tri-Party Agreement for Enhanced AI

    This three-way setup is part of Apple’s broader agreement with Google to deliver a more capable Siri with new features and accessibility options, currently scheduled to launch in September. The Information stated that Apple “will tap into Google’s fleet of Nvidia Blackwell B200 data center chips and will enable Nvidia’s confidential computing feature, which encrypts data as it is being processed by the chips.” This should make the assistant much more useful for everyday tasks.

    Data Encryption as a Core Priority

    Data encryption is a priority for Nvidia, as it will “preserve the confidentiality and integrity of AI models on Rubin, Blackwell, and Hopper GPUs” to allow “sensitive AI workloads to run securely at scale with near-native performance, even in shared or cloud environments.” Nvidia’s flagship GPU family is Blackwell, designed for large-scale AI training even as it gears up for a next-generation Vera Rubin launch. The Blackwell B200 succeeded the Hopper architecture, delivering significant gains in inference performance, speed, and memory bandwidth, and enabling the linking of numerous GPUs.

    New Capabilities for iPhone Users

    This setup would allow Gemini’s more demanding models to run seamlessly via Siri, handling complex tasks on your iPhone with features such as multi-step reasoning, deeper app integration, and a stronger understanding of context. Apple’s focus seems centered on privacy: confidential computing creates a hardware-secure environment that encrypts both data and the model itself during processing. Therefor, even though search queries and prompts pass through Google’s infrastructure and Nvidia hardware, the data will remain protected from both companies, maintaining Apple’s long-term commitment to privacy on iOS. The Information (Paywall)

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  • Siri: The Most Flexible AI Chatbot with Gemini and Claude Support

    Siri: The Most Flexible AI Chatbot with Gemini and Claude Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is working on an upgrade for Siri, named Apple Intelligence, set to launch with iOS 27 by 2026.
    2. Siri will support third-party AI chatbots like Google Gemini and Anthropic’s Claude, ending OpenAI’s exclusive partnership with Apple.
    3. A new “Extensions” feature in the Settings app will allow users to select preferred AI services when Siri cannot answer queries.
    4. The integration will provide a unified AI experience across iPadOS 27 and macOS 27 in addition to iOS 27.
    5. This upgrade may boost Apple’s Services revenue through commissions from AI application subscriptions in the App Store.

    Apple is currently making progress on the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence upgrade for Siri, which aims to enhance the iPhone’s virtual assistant by 2026. Early reports suggest that iOS 27 will enable third-party AI chatbots, such as Google Gemini and Anthropic’s Claude, to directly work with the improved Siri.

    Changes in Partnership

    Mark Gurman from Bloomberg has indicated that this development will mark the end of OpenAI’s exclusive collaboration with Apple. At present, ChatGPT is the only external source for complex queries when Siri struggles to provide answers, which is a frequent occurrence. Consequently, Siri could transform from one of the least effective virtual assistants into one of the most versatile AI chatbots, thanks to the contributions of ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude.

    New Features

    The integration process is expected to be facilitated by a new “Extensions” feature found in the Settings app. Users who download compatible AI applications from the App Store will have the ability to choose which service they prefer Siri to utilize when it cannot answer a query on its own. This feature is also anticipated to be available on iPadOS 27 and macOS 27, delivering a cohesive AI experience across Apple’s entire ecosystem.

    Financial Implications

    In addition to improving user options, this plan is likely to increase Apple’s Services revenue through commissions from AI application subscriptions in the App Store. While Apple continues to revamp Siri with what is said to be a customized version of Google’s Gemini models, these extensions will allow users to use their favored large language model instead of Siri’s built-in engine. The formal announcement is expected to occur at WWDC 2026 on June 8.

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  • Apple’s Siri App to Access Personal Data on iPhone, Says Bloomberg

    Apple’s Siri App to Access Personal Data on iPhone, Says Bloomberg

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple plans to launch its AI initiative in 2026, with a new Siri debuting at WWDC on June 8.
    2. The upgraded Siri will be a standalone app on the iPhone home screen, featuring ChatGPT-like capabilities.
    3. Users can favorite, search, and start new conversations in a chat format similar to Apple’s Messages app.
    4. Siri will replace the Spotlight search, providing AI-generated summaries of web content and integrating directly into apps.
    5. The new Siri will utilize a mix of proprietary AI technologies from Apple and Google Gemini.

    According to recent reports from Bloomberg, Apple is set to launch its AI initiative in 2026. The upgraded version of Siri is expected to be revealed during the WWDC event on June 8, with new AI features anticipated to roll out in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 around September or October.

    Exciting New Siri Features

    In iOS 27, Siri will be introduced as a standalone application right on the iPhone’s home screen, boasting a fresh look and ChatGPT-like “Ask Siri” chatbot capabilities. This new Siri, developed under the internal codename “Campo,” will reportedly have the ability to access various apps and personal data, like emails and messages, to provide answers to a wide array of questions. The app will show previous chats in a grid layout, featuring rounded rectangles that display the last message from each conversation.

    User-Friendly Chat Options

    Users will have the option to favorite and search through conversations or initiate a new one by tapping a prominent “plus” button. The chat format will mimic Apple’s Messages app. Similar to ChatGPT, Siri will allow users to type or voice their requests and even share photos or documents. When activated using the lock button, the AI assistant will appear in the Dynamic Island of the iPhone 17, which is priced at $788 on Amazon.

    Enhanced Search and Text Features

    Siri will also take over the Spotlight search function, offering AI-generated summaries of web content instantly. The “Ask Siri” feature will enable direct integration of Siri into apps through a button, while “Write with Siri” will facilitate the generation of AI-created text directly from the iPhone keyboard. It’s said that Siri will be built on a mix of proprietary AI technologies from both Apple and Google Gemini.

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  • Apple CarPlay May Soon Support ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini

    Apple CarPlay May Soon Support ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple CarPlay may soon support third-party AI assistants like Claude and Gemini.
    2. Siri has been the only voice assistant in CarPlay but is facing challenges compared to competitors.
    3. A revamped version of Siri, incorporating features from Google’s Gemini, is being developed.
    4. Users may not be able to replace Siri or change the wake word for voice commands in CarPlay.
    5. No official confirmation from Apple about these potential updates, and plans may change.

    According to a recent report by Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, an insider has hinted that Apple CarPlay might soon support AI assistants like Claude and Gemini.

    Potential for Third-Party Assistants

    The report mentions that Apple, based in Cupertino, is looking into the possibility of integrating external voice assistants into the CarPlay system. Up until now, Siri has been the sole voice assistant permitted to operate within CarPlay.

    Siri’s Ongoing Struggles

    Siri’s effectiveness has been a topic of discussion for quite some time. The well-known voice assistant has often fallen behind its competitors, especially in the last few years. A revamped version of Siri, enhanced with capabilities from Google’s Gemini, is also in the works.

    Limitations on Voice Command Changes

    Even if Apple decides to permit developers from Anthropic, OpenAI, and Google to create CarPlay applications for their AI-driven voice chatbots, it’s doubtful they will allow users to replace the Siri button or modify the wake word for voice commands. Therefore, users wanting to access third-party chatbots will need to launch those apps independently.

    In conclusion, there has been no official word from Apple about these potential updates. As is typical, plans that are not confirmed could change at any time.

    Mark Gurman, via Bloomberg

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  • Apple Pin: Dual Cameras, Triple Microphones & Speaker in AirTag Shape

    Apple Pin: Dual Cameras, Triple Microphones & Speaker in AirTag Shape

    Key Takeaways

    1. Jony Ive is developing an AI device for OpenAI, while Apple is reportedly creating a similar product expected by 2027.
    2. The new Apple gadget, referred to as the “Apple Pin,” is described as a thin, flat, round disk, comparable in size to an Apple AirTag but slightly thicker.
    3. It is expected to include a wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle camera, three microphones, a speaker for AI interaction, and a single physical button.
    4. The device will have a magnetic back for wireless charging, similar to the technology used in the Apple Watch.
    5. The gadget may connect with an upgraded version of Siri, expected to be more powerful with the upcoming iOS 27, built on Google’s Gemini AI chatbot.

    While the former design head of Apple, Jony Ive, is working on an AI device for OpenAI, Apple is said to be creating a similar product too. A recent report from The Information suggests that this new gadget could be available to consumers by 2027. The device is described as a thin, flat, round disk, which might remind one of an Apple AirTag (priced at $26 on Amazon). It’s expected to be a comparable size but a bit thicker.

    Features Unveiled

    On the front of this rumored “Apple Pin,” there are expected to be a wide-angle camera and an ultra-wide-angle camera for capturing images and videos of the environment around the user. Apple is also reportedly including three microphones and a speaker, enabling interaction with an AI assistant. Moreover, the gadget may have just a single physical button. It will feature a magnetic back for wireless charging, similar to the technology used in the Apple Watch.

    Expectations and Speculations

    Nonetheless, it is still uncertain what specific features this gadget will have. However, it’s likely that the device could connect with Apple’s upcoming version of Siri, which is anticipated to debut later this year with iOS 27 and macOS 27. In contrast to the first AI-driven version of Siri that will come with iOS 26.4, the iOS 27 iteration is rumored to be built on Google’s Gemini AI chatbot, making it much more powerful. As is often the case, these early speculations should be viewed with some skepticism, as Apple’s intentions could still change.

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  • Apple Partners with Google: Siri to Use Gemini Technology Soon

    Apple Partners with Google: Siri to Use Gemini Technology Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is partnering with Google to enhance Siri using Google’s Gemini technology and cloud services.
    2. This collaboration marks Apple’s first significant reliance on external technology for its AI ecosystem.
    3. Apple is committed to maintaining user privacy, with most AI operations occurring on-device and through its own cloud services.
    4. The partnership signals a shift in the AI landscape, positioning Apple and Google against Microsoft and OpenAI.
    5. There is cautious optimism among users about the potential improvements to Siri following this partnership.

    Apple has been careful with its approach to artificial intelligence until now. Even though Siri is well integrated into Apple’s ecosystem, it is frequently viewed as less effective than other voice assistants. It’s not surprising that AI assistants from leading smartphone brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Motorola are already using Google’s Gemini. Now, Apple is aiming to close this gap.

    Partnership Announcement

    In a joint statement, Apple and Google have revealed a long-term strategic collaboration. Moving forward, Apple plans to develop its foundation models utilizing Google’s Gemini technology and cloud services. This partnership aims to greatly improve Apple Intelligence, leading to a smarter and more customized version of Siri.

    Privacy Commitment

    Even with this new partnership, Apple is upholding its promise of privacy. The company insists that Apple Intelligence will mainly operate on-device and through its own cloud services. While Google supplies the AI technology, Apple remains in full control of system integration and user information. This change is a pivotal moment for Apple, as it marks the first instance of the company depending on an outside technology for such a crucial aspect of its ecosystem.

    Changing Dynamics in AI

    A new power dynamic is starting to form in the AI industry, with Google and Apple clearly setting themselves against Microsoft and OpenAI. OpenAI, which is known for creating ChatGPT, is generally perceived as the one losing out in this situation, especially since a partnership with Apple was also thought to be a possibility. On Reddit, users are cautiously optimistic about the Apple-Google partnership. The general mood is that there is only room for improvement. After years of disappointing performance, many are hopeful that Siri is finally getting the upgrade it truly deserves.

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  • iPhone 17 Pro and Other Models to Get Exciting New Features

    iPhone 17 Pro and Other Models to Get Exciting New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is planning over 30 new products, with updates expected in iOS 26 or iOS 27.
    2. A new subscription service, Apple Health+, will enhance the health app with AI-driven features.
    3. Siri will receive new capabilities, including IntelligenceFlow and SpotlightPersonalAnswersSiri, by spring 2026.
    4. Third-party apps will be able to auto-fill credit card information from Apple Pay starting fall 2026.
    5. Various smaller updates include live captions in more languages, improved Apple Wallet notifications, and enhanced features in the Journal and Photos apps.

    After digging through the code of an internal beta version of iOS 26, it has been discovered that Apple is planning more than 30 new products. MacRumors has found solid clues in the same code about fresh features for the upcoming Apple iPhone 17 and other devices. These updates are expected to roll out in the next few months, either as part of iOS 26 or iOS 27.

    New Subscription Service for Health

    One of the most exciting revelations is the introduction of Apple Health+, a new paid subscription service that will enhance the Apple Health app with advanced health features, driven by AI. However, the specific features included in this subscription are still a mystery. Additionally, Siri is set to get a variety of new capabilities in spring 2026. This reinforces earlier speculations that Apple’s AI-enhanced version of Siri will finally be launched by next spring. The iOS 26 code shows new features like IntelligenceFlow, PlanOverrides, SpotlightPersonalAnswersSiri, and SpotlightSearchToolLLMQueryUnderstanding.

    Enhancements to Payment and Apps

    Beginning in fall 2026, third-party applications will gain the ability to automatically enter credit card information if it is saved in Apple Pay. Furthermore, Apple Wallet will start notifying users about upcoming payments during the summer. The Journal app from Apple will also be capable of comprehending follow-up prompts come spring. The code also hints at various smaller updates, such as the addition of live captions in more languages, folder functionalities in the Freeform app, shared collections in the Photos app, and enhanced sleep tracking features in Apple Health.

    These updates promise to enhance the user experience across Apple’s ecosystem as they continue to innovate and expand their product offerings.

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  • Apple iPhone iOS 26.2: New Siri Alternatives and AirDrop Upgrade

    Apple iPhone iOS 26.2: New Siri Alternatives and AirDrop Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users must manually launch third-party voice assistants on iPhone 17 or older models; the lock button activates only Siri for now.
    2. An upcoming iOS 26.2 update may allow users to select different default apps for the side button, hinting at a change in voice assistant functionality.
    3. The changes in the beta version suggest compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, promoting equal access for third-party software.
    4. Apple Pay may soon allow third-party payment apps to activate with a double-press of the lock button for NFC transactions.
    5. AirDrop enhancements include pairing devices using a PIN code and extending visibility to 30 days, improving usability.

    Anyone interested in using a voice assistant other than Siri on the Apple iPhone 17 or older models will need to launch the specific app manually for now. This is because pressing the lock button for a few seconds will only activate Siri. However, this situation might shift with the upcoming iOS 26.2 update, expected in a few months. MacRumors has discovered several hints within the Siri framework code in the third developer beta, indicating that Apple is gearing up for a notable change.

    New Developments in the Beta

    Previously, all informational texts referenced Siri, but the latest beta version has replaced these mentions with a generic placeholder. One of the texts even mentions the ability to select a different “default side button app.” Another notice cautions users if the selected “side button app” fails to support voice commands. This alteration is most likely due to the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which mandates that third-party software must have equal access to hardware features as Apple’s built-in software.

    Changes in Payment Options

    Additionally, Apple Pay might be substituted with a third-party application that activates when the lock button is double-pressed, allowing NFC payments to be made through an alternative app. In another development, 9to5Mac has reported enhancements to AirDrop, including a new feature that allows devices to be paired using a PIN code. Once paired, these devices will stay visible for up to 30 days. This change could prove beneficial, as currently, an AirDrop device can only be visible for saved contacts or just for 10 minutes.

     

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  • Apple to Pay Google $1 Billion for Siri AI Model Upgrade

    Apple to Pay Google $1 Billion for Siri AI Model Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is reportedly negotiating a $1 billion annual deal with Google for access to an AI engine to enhance Siri.
    2. The discussions involve implementing Google’s Gemini AI model in future versions of Apple’s operating systems.
    3. Apple’s own AI efforts, “Apple Intelligence,” have not met expectations, prompting the search for external solutions.
    4. The new AI model is expected to operate mainly on Apple’s “Private Cloud Compute servers,” focusing on user privacy.
    5. Neither Apple nor Google has confirmed the deal, and the future of Siri’s enhancements remains speculative.

    Apple is said to be discussing a deal with Google to pay $1 billion each year for access to an AI engine. As reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, sources familiar with the situation indicate that Apple and Google are close to reaching an agreement that would enable Apple to utilize one of Google’s AI models to revamp Siri.

    AI Integration for Siri

    Earlier this year, it was alleged that Apple and Google were in negotiations to implement Gemini as the AI engine driving Siri in upcoming versions of Apple’s operating systems. Apple’s own AI efforts, known as “Apple Intelligence,” have not performed well, which makes it understandable for the company to seek alternative ways to enhance the AI that powers its virtual assistant.

    A Significant Investment

    According to Gurman, Apple is expected to invest around $1 billion annually for the utilization of a 1.2 trillion parameter AI model. This new model is anticipated to support a refreshed Siri, which is rumored to launch in the Spring alongside iOS 26.4.

    Gurman also mentions that while the new Siri will still incorporate some internal engines for certain capabilities, Google’s model will manage the majority of information processing and task execution. The AI model is likely to operate on Apple’s “Private Cloud Compute servers,” aligning with the company’s strong emphasis on user privacy.

    Speculation and Future Developments

    Neither Apple nor Google has provided comments on this potential agreement, and Gurman suggests they may not be inclined to do so. As this remains speculation, it’s wise to take such information cautiously. Apple has been promising an enhanced Siri for several years now, but it appears that Google might be the one to finally deliver on those expectations.

    Bloomberg’s insights highlight the ongoing evolution in the AI landscape and the strategic moves being made by tech giants.

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