Apple WWDC 2024 is different — 10 things to expect from Apple’s mega ‘AI event’

June 10, 2024 — block your calendars because it’s going to be “action packed.” At WWDC 2024, Apple will finally reveal to the world its big AI plans for iPhone, Mac and virtually every Apple device that you can think of at the time of writing. There’s a lot at stake and Apple is a bit late to the party but then it’s never been about being “first” for Apple. The journey is the reward, as they say. Which is why, it’s even more exciting to see what it has in store after having taken a good amount of time, “cooking” up things behind closed doors all this time.

Central to Apple’s AI strategy will be a billion-dollar partnership with OpenAI—per reports—that would infuse ChatGPT and ChatGPT-like capabilities across its entire ecosystem. iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Vision Pro, you name it. Rumour has it that there’s a bit of resistance inside Apple to integrate a chatbot within Apple devices—like many other brands—and so, you can expect Apple to do things differently. We’ll see. The other big piece of the jigsaw puzzle is Siri. Thanks to AI and Apple’s meticulous engineering, its in-house voice assistant is—finally—set to get its biggest overhaul since it made its grand debut with the iPhone 4S in 2011.

While AI and Siri will be “top” priorities, let’s not forget, at WWDC 2024, Apple will announce the full slate of features coming to its entire suite of software—iOS 18, iPadOS 18, macOS 15, so on and so forth. Specifically with iOS 18, we can expect more personalisation while iPad and Mac may finally get their dedicated calculator app for the first time.

Apple WWDC 2024: Here are 10 things to expect from Apple’s mega AI event:

1. OpenAI partnership: At WWDC 2024 on June 10, Apple is widely expected to formally announce a partnership with OpenAI (via The Information) to integrate its advanced generative AI technology—ChatGPT—into Apple’s software ecosystem. This collaboration is set to enhance Apple’s AI capabilities and could potentially generate substantial revenue for OpenAI.
2. Apple Intelligence: Apple will reportedly call its AI system—and all the AI features it plans to bundle under it—the Apple Intelligence. The new setup will introduce “beta” AI features (via Bloomberg) across Apple’s platforms and apps, including access to a ChatGPT-like chatbot powered by OpenAI.
3. Apple AI approach: Apple isn’t looking to wow iPhone users—and investors—with flashy features, like some other brands, rather its AI approach is said to be more practical at least in the beginning phase. Apple Intelligence will focus on features like AI-powered summaries and reply suggestions.
4. Apple AI security: Apple will reportedly use an algorithm to determine whether tasks should be processed locally on devices or sent to a cloud server. The company plans to utilise its M2 chip in data centres, ensuring remote data processing remains secure with a Secure Enclave. To address privacy concerns, Apple will avoid creating user profiles and will issue reports confirming that user data isn’t being sold or accessed.
5. Apple AI devices: According to Bloomberg, Apple Intelligence will require an M1 chip or later for iPad and Mac users. For mobile devices, access might be restricted to the iPhone 15 Pro and the upcoming iPhone 16 series. Notably, Apple will not make the new AI features mandatory; users can choose to opt in.
6. AI Siri: Apple maybe looking to give Siri greater control over apps and cater to applications with broad appeal, according to reports. This means you will be able to control these apps with voice.
7. Apple settings, control centre: Apple is planning a major update to the Settings apps on both iOS and macOS. The redesign will feature a cleaner user interface, better organisation, and enhanced search capabilities. This update will also apply to the macOS System Settings app. Additionally, the iOS Control Centre will receive improvements, including a new music widget and better smart home appliance controls.
8. Apple messages, photos: The Messages app is set to get several exciting new features, including the ability to animate individual words in text messages. Additionally, Apple will introduce new Tapback icons, expanding the range of reaction emojis available when long-pressing a message. The Photos app will also receive a user interface makeover, aimed at streamlining photo browsing and editing. Meanwhile, the Mail app is slated for several improvements to enhance its functionality and user-friendliness.
9. Apple home screen: In iOS 18, Apple will reportedly introduce the ability to change app icon colours, providing users with more options for personalising their home screens. Another expected feature is the flexibility to arrange app icons as desired.
10. Apple passwords app: Apple is reportedly set to launch a dedicated “Passwords” app at WWDC 2024 on June 10. This app aims to serve as an alternative to popular password managers like LastPass and 1Password, helping users manage their login information. The new Passwords app will categorise logins into sections such as accounts, Wi-Fi networks, and passkeys, according to Bloomberg. The app will reportedly support Windows. Expected to debut in iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS 15, it will support autofill, generate and store passwords, and create authentication codes like Google Authenticator.

Apple WWDC 2024 live stream: Apple’s WWDC 2024 will kick off on June 10. The keynote will be streamed live on Apple’s official website, the Apple Developer app, the Apple TV app, and Apple’s YouTube channel, starting at 10 am PDT (10:30 pm IST).

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