Apple plans to make Siri smarter by using language models in iOS 18, allowing users to automate complex tasks with voice-based commands similar to the Shortcuts app, potentially beating Google Assistant to the punch.
Apple unveiled its new iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models, powered by the advanced A17 Pro chip, which uses AI to enhance features such as Siri and camera technology, highlighting Apple's commitment to building powerful hardware for AI applications.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used in smartphones, with Google and Apple integrating AI features into their devices, including camera enhancements, adaptive features, and smart suggestions, while AI-powered generative chatbots like ChatGPT and Google Bard are challenging traditional digital assistants like Google Assistant, Siri, and Alexa. The AI revolution is just beginning, with more AI and machine learning features expected to come to market in the future.
Apple will release iOS 17 on September 18, bringing new features including StandBy, Contact Posters, NameDrop, Live Voicemail, swipe-to-reply in iMessage, interactive widgets, improved autocorrect, offline Apple Maps, a stickers drawer, and a simplified voice command for Siri.
Apple's iOS 17 introduces Live Voicemail, a feature that provides real-time transcriptions of voicemail messages as they are being recorded, as well as updates to FaceTime voicemail and AirDrop.
Amazon is integrating a large language model into its Echo devices to improve conversational interactions, although some issues were experienced during a live demonstration; meanwhile, Apple's new Apple Watch Series 9 introduces a "Double Tap" method of interaction and on-device Siri processing.
OpenAI has upgraded ChatGPT to include voice and image capabilities, allowing the AI tool to have interactive conversations and respond to prompts through speech and analyze and respond to images.
Main topic: Live Voicemail feature for iOS 17
Key points:
1. Live Voicemail allows users to read transcriptions of caller messages in real time.
2. Users can choose to pick up the call and chat while the caller is still on the line or read the message without playing it back.
3. The feature can be activated in the settings and can be turned off if desired.
Google has upgraded its voice assistant, infusing it with new AI features that expand its capabilities, including the ability to help users complete tasks, understand more natural conversation when dictating texts, optimize phone call experiences, and summarize webpages.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, with improvements in design, camera capabilities, and features such as the Action Button and USB-C, making it one of the best smartphones on the market.
Google has upgraded its voice assistant, infusing it with new AI features like contextual awareness and the ability to complete tasks, making it stand out from other smartphone assistants. The upgrade, called Assistant with Bard, will be available on Android and iOS devices in the next few months, and will include features such as conversational overlays and more natural voice commands. Additionally, Google Assistant can now detect and filter spam calls, and has the ability to summarize webpages and read them aloud, with impressive voice quality.
With iOS 17, Siri can be activated without saying "Hey," back-to-back requests can be made without repeating "Siri," and articles can be read aloud in Safari, making it easier to stay updated on the news.