Apple to Announce Agreement With OpenAI at WWDC [Report]

Apple has reached a deal with OpenAI to incorporate its technology into iOS 18, according to a new report from Bloomberg.

Since the launch of ChatGPT, Apple has been working furiously to develop its own solution to the popular chatbot, using a framework dubbed Ajax. However, Apple's technology has not yet reached the point of being ready for widespread release.

Apple found that its AI is capable enough to power features like voice memo transcriptions and photo editing, as well as new search capabilities in the Safari web browser and auto replies in apps like Messages. But it determined early on that OpenAI and Google were far ahead in chatbots and on-the-fly assistance.


A few months ago, Apple started meeting with third party providers like OpenAI and Google about integrating their technology into iOS. By outsourcing chatbot functions, Apple can distance itself from occasional inaccuracies and continue working on its own technology, while providing users the features they crave.

Apple picked OpenAI as its inaugural AI partner for a few reasons, one of the people said. It got better business terms than Google was offering, and Apple believes that OpenAI's technology is the best available on the market. Integrating Google AI into the iPhone also might have given the impression that Apple's biggest technology rival had beat it in a vital new area.

There are some concerns that integration with ChatGPT could give OpenAI access to the personal information of Apple users. To that end, Apple is expected to offer its new AI features as an opt-in service.

Although Apple has reached an agreement with OpenAI to be its inaugural partner, it may still sign an agreement with Google, giving users a choice between the two providers. As Apple's own technology matures, it will likely replace third party powered AI features with its own solutions.


On a side note, Bloomberg says that Apple is also looking to use its large language models to power a pair of robotic devices that are being developed in secret. One is a table-top robotic arm with large iPad-like display. The other is a mobile robot that can follow users around and do chores for them. Additionally, Apple has purportedly been looking to equip AirPods with cameras and AI features.

We'll get a closer look at Apple's plans for AI at the Worldwide Developers Conference next week. Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for more updates!