Apple resumes talks with OpenAI to build chatbot for iPhones
What's the story
Apple has reportedly resumed negotiations with OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT, to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities into iOS 18.
The discussions primarily revolve around a "chatbot/search component," according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman.
In addition, Apple is developing its own language models for several iOS 18 features.
The company is also considering licensing Gemini, Google's AI-driven chatbot, for its upcoming software update.
Uncertainty
Apple has not yet finalized the tech provider
While negotiations with OpenAI and Google are ongoing, Apple has not yet decided which company's technology it will use for its products.
Gurman suggests that the tech giant might license AI technology from both companies or neither.
Despite the intense competition in Silicon Valley over AI advancements, Apple has remained relatively quiet about its own AI projects.
Developments
CEO Tim Cook hinted at AI-focused laptops
Apple's CEO, Tim Cook, during the company's earnings call in February, stated that Apple continues to work and invest in AI and is "excited to share the details of our ongoing work in that space later this year."
The recently launched M3 MacBook Air was touted by Apple as the "world's best consumer laptop for AI," hinting at significant advancements.
Rumors suggest Apple will debut new AI-focused laptops and desktops later this year, all powered by an M4 chip.
Strategy
Apple has launched several open-source large language models
Apple recently launched several open-source large language models designed to function locally on devices, not in the cloud.
However, it remains unclear how the AI capabilities will be integrated into iPhones and other devices.
Cook acknowledged using ChatGPT last year but noted there were "several issues that need to be sorted."
He assured that new AI features would be introduced on Apple's platforms on a "very thoughtful basis," potentially minimizing liability through collaborations with other companies.