Apple set to introduce AI-powered notification summary feature

Apple is set to introduce an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered notification summary feature with iOS 18 at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024, according to reports. The Cupertino-based tech giant is expected to unveil several practical AI features at the annual event on June 10. Among these, a notable upgrade will make Siri more conversational by adding natural and emotive speech to the virtual assistant. Additionally, AI functionalities are anticipated to enhance Apple’s Safari, Photos, and Notes apps.

AppleInsider reports that the company plans to significantly enhance Siri by integrating AI capabilities. The AI initiatives, internally dubbed Project Greymatter, include a feature called “Greymatter Catch Up,” a notification summarisation tool likely to operate through Siri. Siri’s ability to handle complex commands is also expected to improve with a new smart response framework and an on-device large language model (LLM) to understand context and provide more conversational replies.

AI features will extend beyond Siri to enhance existing apps and improve user experience. For instance, Safari might introduce a web page summarisation feature similar to those offered by Google’s Gemini and Microsoft’s Copilot. Additionally, a Web Eraser feature could allow users to delete elements like banner ads, images, and text from web pages.

The Photos app is rumored to gain an AI tool called ‘Clean Up,’ offering Photoshop-grade editing capabilities that can remove unwanted background objects from images. Meanwhile, the Notes app may receive an AI-based real-time audio transcription feature, allowing users to read, edit, copy, and share transcripts. This app will also include a text summarisation feature for easier navigation of lengthy notes.

These AI enhancements are reportedly powered by Apple’s Ajax LLM, which the company is currently keeping under wraps. The updates signal Apple’s commitment to integrating advanced AI to enhance functionality and user experience across its ecosystem.