Apple has introduced a major upgrade to Siri, its voice assistant, in an effort to catch up with other companies in the fast-growing artificial intelligence (AI) industry.

The new version, called Siri AI, was announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference in California. It can have more natural conversations, understand what is displayed on a user’s screen, and search the internet for information. Apple first announced plans to improve Siri two years ago, but the updates were delayed several times.

With the new features, users can go back and view previous Siri conversations. Siri AI can also find information, such as an address mentioned in a text message, even if it was not saved in contacts.

The upgrade is Apple’s biggest effort so far to improve Siri and compete with AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. These rivals have moved quickly to develop AI systems that can perform more advanced tasks for users.

Apple’s software chief, Craig Federighi, said the company is focused on creating AI features that are useful for people rather than simply adding AI for its own sake.

Unlike some competitors that are developing fully autonomous AI assistants, Apple is focusing on AI tools that help users with everyday activities.

Technology analyst Bob O’Donnell said the new Siri finally delivers the vision Apple had when Siri was first introduced 15 years ago. He added that the assistant is designed for ordinary users and offers the type of intelligence many people want.

However, some analysts said the updates are useful but not revolutionary. They believe Siri will become a stronger chatbot and a more capable digital assistant.

Apple also revealed that some of its AI systems use Google’s Gemini technology, while larger AI models run on cloud systems powered by Nvidia chips.

The company stressed that protecting user privacy remains a priority. Most AI processing will take place directly on users’ devices or through Apple’s secure cloud systems.

Still, some experts raised privacy concerns because Siri AI needs access to information on a user’s screen and within apps to provide better assistance. They said Apple must convince users that improved AI features will not compromise privacy.

Siri AI can help users search through messages and emails and answer questions about what is currently displayed on their screens.

Apple said images and searches created with Siri AI will be stored in a new app available on iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers, with data synchronized through Apple’s private cloud system.

Due to privacy and regulatory concerns, Siri AI will not be available initially in the European Union on iPhones and iPads. The feature will also not be available in China until regulatory issues are resolved.

In addition to Siri AI, Apple announced new child-safety features. Parents will have greater control over the apps, websites, and contacts their children can access. Messaging apps will automatically blur graphic images and notify parents.

Apple also introduced improvements to its image-generation tools and added new AI features to its Safari browser, including the ability to check whether products are back in stock on websites.

Source: https://ddnews.gov.in/