CUPERTINO, Calif. Monday, March 25, 2024 – Apple has acquired a Canadian artificial intelligence startup, DarwinAI, in a move seen as a strategic step to bolster its AI capabilities ahead of the major iOS 18 launch. While specific details of the deal remain undisclosed, the acquisition was confirmed earlier this year. 1
DarwinAI, known for its expertise in making AI systems smaller and faster, could be instrumental in Apple’s efforts to integrate more advanced AI features into its iPhones and other devices. Reports suggest Apple intends to prioritize on-device AI processing for the upcoming iOS 18, potentially reducing reliance on cloud-based solutions.
Industry analysts believe Apple is playing catch-up in the AI race, with competitors like Google and Microsoft already offering robust AI-powered smartphone features.
CEO Tim Cook has hinted at significant advancements in AI for Apple this year, and the DarwinAI acquisition aligns with those aspirations.
Details of how DarwinAI’s technology will be integrated into iOS 18 remain unknown.
However, rumors suggest potential enhancements like a more capable Siri with improved content summarization and question-answering abilities, similar to ChatGPT.
Apple is also in talks with Google over using Google LLM Gemini.
- DarwinAI Acquisition: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-03-14/apple-aapl-buys-canadian-ai-startup-darwinai-as-part-of-race-to-add-features[↩]
