Apple Introduces Evolved Siri: In-House AI Model Replaces ChatGPT

Apple unexpectedly released the iOS 18.1 beta, which includes the highly anticipated AI features, causing a stir in the developer community. Immediately, a flood of reviews emerged, quickly dominating various social media platforms. Additionally, Apple published a 47-page technical report on its AI foundation model, adding more highlights to this sudden release.

Early in the morning, the first preview version of "Apple AI" was officially pushed to developers. The latest AI capabilities from Apple were integrated into iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1. Users who received the iOS 18.1 beta version are already sharing their hands-on experiences.

The new version includes the following key features:

  • New Siri: Soft light illuminates the screen edge when activated; can switch between text and voice; understands stuttered commands; can answer Apple product troubleshooting questions
  • Writing tool: Can rewrite, proofread, and summarize text in any context
  • Focus mode: Only displays notifications that need to be seen immediately
  • Photo features: Search photos using natural language, create videos
  • Generate AI summaries for emails, messages, and voicemails

Apple stated that more features will be introduced next year, such as ChatGPT integration, image/emoji generation, and automatic photo cleanup.

Currently, the iOS 18.1 beta is only available in the US and supports iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. The new system occupies 15.44GB of space, with Apple AI taking up only 2.86GB.

Apple released a 48-page AI technology report, introducing two new foundation language models:

  1. AFM-on-device: About 3 billion parameters, can run on terminal devices like iPhones
  2. AFM-server: Larger parameter model, runs on Apple cloud servers for intensive tasks

Early testers shared some practical experiences:

  • Can improve text expression, making the tone friendlier
  • Provides grammar and spelling checks
  • Generates summaries in emails
  • Supports using writing tools in apps like Notes and Messages

Overall, Apple AI integrates multiple practical functions, enhancing the system's intelligence. More capabilities will be introduced in the future, which is worth looking forward to.