Apple is gearing up to enhance its Siri virtual assistant with cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology, enabling users to control specific app functions using their voice. According to sources familiar with the matter, this upgrade is set to be a game-changer for iOS 18.

Here are some key details about what Siri will be capable of in the upcoming iOS update:

– Siri will now have the ability to command all features within apps for the first time, thanks to a significant overhaul of its underlying code.
– This revamp involves the use of large language models, a fundamental technology in generative AI, making it one of Apple’s main AI features expected to be unveiled at WWDC on June 10.

In addition to the Siri upgrade, Apple is working on several new AI features for its devices:

– Voice memo transcriptions
– Quick summaries of websites and notifications
– Automated message replies
– Advanced photo editing tools
– AI-generated emojis

Basic AI tasks will be processed on devices, while more advanced capabilities will rely on cloud computing. Apple is also in talks with OpenAI and Google for potential integration of their technologies into the iOS operating system.

Craig Federighi, Apple’s software chief, has instructed his teams to develop multiple new AI features for this year’s operating system updates. Siri will take center stage at the WWDC keynote, showcasing its enhanced capabilities such as precise control and navigation of iPhone or iPad functions.

Initially, Siri will support commands only within Apple’s apps but plans to expand support for hundreds of different commands. Users can expect future updates that allow chaining commands together seamlessly.

Though these advanced features are not expected until next year as part of an iOS 18 update, Apple aims to prioritize data privacy by providing an “intelligence report” detailing how information is safeguarded.

It is worth noting that many of these new AI on-device features may require an iPhone 15 Pro or newer models and only M1 Macs and iPads will receive support initially. This strategy could potentially encourage customers to upgrade their devices for optimal AI performance—an approach synonymous with Apple’s commitment to innovation.