September 22, 2024 | by Unboxify
When Apple Intelligence rolls out later this year, it will be unlike any other product Apple has released into the world. This time, Apple is stepping into the chaotic realm of generative AI, where it can’t control every aspect of the user experience. The words or images generated by the machine may at times be extraordinary, or they might miss the mark, and Apple fully acknowledges this. This leap forward in technology was discussed in greater detail through research published by Apple.
Apple Intelligence is not something users can try just yet. While there is a developer beta of iOS 18 available now, it doesn’t include any AI functionalities. Apple Intelligence is set to roll out as a beta product in the fall, but not all features will be available from the get-go. Given its beta status, features may evolve, but we have some insight into its initial shape and form. Apple’s approach seems to balance giving users some freedom while embedding numerous protections.
The essence of generative AI is that it creates content based on user input, and Apple must relinquish some control to make this work. Here are some key features worth noting:
Using Apple’s AI, you can model an image off a real person, provided they are an established contact in your photo library. If not, you can generate a generic avatar by selecting gender, skin tone, and hair color.
It appears Apple designed some aspects intentionally to prevent misuse. For instance, the images generated are cartoony, not realistic, to minimize the chances of fooling people or creating harmful content. Moreover, Apple has implemented filters to prevent the generation of inappropriate images, like nudity.
This approach speaks volumes about Apple’s commitment to responsible AI development. Their generative AI models aim to avoid perpetuating stereotypes and systemic biases and focus on minimizing potential harm.
Language continually evolves, and people often find creative ways to convey meanings. For example, the eggplant emoji has become widely recognized for its alternative meaning because there wasn’t a better option. Likewise, on platforms like TikTok, users substitute words to dodge censorship—calling guns “mouse” is a case in point. With this in mind, Apple’s generative AI might have some unexpected interpretations of user input.
Despite Apple’s best efforts in creating protective filters, the possibility of misuse is ever-present. Life finds a way, as they say, and people will inevitably push boundaries to see what they can create or convey. This only emphasizes the need for continuous updates and improvements based on user feedback.
Apple’s generative AI also includes sophisticated image-editing tools, allowing you to edit someone out of a photo. However, metadata will indicate if a cleanup tool was used, signaling that the image is doctored. This transparency is crucial as we navigate the implications of altering digital content.
Different groups will need to share their best practices as we adapt to these new tools. Collaborative learning will be essential to harnessing this technology responsibly and ethically.
Apple has highlighted the importance of privacy and responsible AI development in a research document. They’ve stressed ensuring AI doesn’t perpetuate harmful stereotypes or cause unintended consequences.
Apple scores its AI models using a Human Satisfaction Score, comparing them with others for helpfulness and safety. Although Apple’s AI performs well, it’s not perfect. They’re committed to ongoing evaluations through both manual and automatic red teaming, involving internal and external experts to continually assess the model’s safety.
Apple Intelligence grants users significant control over AI interactions. AI writing tools, for instance, help structure sentences and provide suggestions for improved tone and clarity. These tools are accessible wherever you write text, clearly indicated by glowing rainbow lights.
Siri is getting an AI upgrade, characterized by a colorful glow around the phone’s border when active. Apple Intelligence collates info from users’ personal accounts, photos, texts, calendars, and emails, rather than pulling data from the web. For outside information, users can ask questions to ChatGPT 4.0, with an option to link to a ChatGPT account for a richer history of AI interactions.
Apple is known for its tight control over its ecosystem—Approving apps, curating high-quality content on Apple TV+, and even delaying features like home screen customization for years.
It’s surprising to see Apple embracing elements beyond its control with generative AI. This represents a significant shift in the company’s approach, but one that is executed cautiously and thoughtfully.
Apple’s approach to generative AI is balanced, responsible, and cautiously optimistic. The slow rollout of the beta phase ensures that this powerful technology is adopted responsibly. Users will have significant creative freedom, but within a framework designed to minimize harm and misuse.
Feel free to share your thoughts about Apple Intelligence in the comments. What is the first thing you’ll create using Image Playground? Let’s embrace this new, exciting frontier in the world of AI, one imaginative creation at a time.
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