Apple AI: Cupertino giant is preparing a host of AI tools to take on Microsoft’s Copilot, OpenAI

AApple is almost ready to launch a new software tool designed to enhance artificial intelligence capabilities on its platform, as per a report by Blomberg. With this, Apple intensifies its rivalry with Microsoft and OpenAI

The upcoming AI tool is part of the next major version of Xcode, Apple’s premier programming software, and has undergone extensive development over the past year. Recent reports suggest that Apple has expanded internal testing of the features and accelerated development efforts, aiming for a release to third-party developers as early as this year.

Sources familiar with the matter reveal that the new system will function akin to Microsoft’s GitHub Copilot, utilizing artificial intelligence to predict and complete segments of code. By simplifying the programming process, the tool holds the potential to save significant time and resources for software developers.

In addition to aiding in code generation, Apple is exploring AI applications for testing purposes, aiming to streamline the often laborious process of application testing. Engineers within the company are currently testing these AI features internally, aligning with Apple’s practice of “dogfooding” to ensure product efficacy before external release.

These developments signify Apple’s broader venture into generative AI and large language models, positioning the company to compete with industry peers in this burgeoning field. While playing catch-up, Apple has pledged to unveil its AI strategy later this year, potentially during its annual developers conference scheduled for June.

The news has sparked investor interest, with Apple shares briefly turning positive following the announcement. Meanwhile, Microsoft’s stock saw a marginal decline. Apple declined to comment on its plans.

The urgency at Apple surrounding AI development at Apple is evident, with Craig Federighi, Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, spearheading efforts to introduce as many new AI features as possible in upcoming operating system updates.

Key figures within Apple, including top deputy Sebastien Marineau-Mes, are heavily involved in driving AI initiatives forward.

The company’s next iPhone and iPad software updates, iOS and iPadOS 18, are expected to feature a plethora of new AI capabilities, with the software internally codenamed “Crystal.” Apple aims to position these updates as among the most significant in the history of its flagship products.

Furthermore, Apple plans to integrate AI features into the next version of macOS, codenamed “Glow,” although the company intends to adopt a gradual approach to AI implementation, with certain enhancements expected to materialize over the course of several years.

Beyond code generation, Apple is exploring various AI applications, including automating tasks such as playlist creation in Apple Music and enhancing search capabilities within its ecosystem.

As competition in the AI space intensifies, Apple remains committed to refining its own large language models to enhance services like Siri and AppleCare support. With ongoing investments in AI-driven health features, Apple aims to solidify its position as a leader in leveraging artificial intelligence across its product ecosystem.