Apple is reportedly ramping up talks with OpenAI to bring cutting-edge generative AI features to iPhones. This according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who states Apple has “revived” discussions with the creators of ChatGPT. The focus of the partnership would be powering new iPhone features, potentially arriving as soon as this year.
Talks with OpenAI had cooled recently, while Apple and Google continued exploring the potential of licensing Google’s Gemini chatbot for the iPhone. Gurman emphasizes that nothing is finalized, and Apple could ultimately ink deals with both AI giants.
AI-driven features are expected to be major upgrades in iOS 18. Reports suggest a primary goal is a chatbot-like interface, and OpenAI’s involvement could make that a reality. Interestingly, Gurman mentions Apple’s hardware push towards on-device AI processing, recently seen in the MacBook Air M3 and Apple Watch Series 9. This raises the question of whether the iPhone 16 might debut AI features specifically boosted by its A18 chip.
Apple’s WWDC 2024 (June 10th) will likely be our best look at whatever comes of these negotiations. For now, the world waits to see how the AI arms race shakes out on the iPhone.
