Despite not having plans for a consumer release, Apple has reportedly begun leveraging its own generative artificial intelligence (AI) model, internally known as Apple GPT, similar to OpenAI's ChatGPT.
Last week, rumors surfaced that Apple, in a quiet bid to catch up with OpenAI, had created a large language model framework named Ajax last year and has developed a chatbot tool similar to ChatGPT for its internal use.
Although reports last week suggested that Apple had no current plans to roll out this technology to consumers, and executives were yet to decide how to introduce AI tools to the public, recent information indicates that Apple has already started using the AI tool for its operational services.
Media reports indicate that Apple is using Apple GPT internally to assist employees in prototyping future functionalities, summarizing texts, and answering queries based on trained data.
Moreover, apart from consumer products and internal Apple GPT tools, the tech giant is also reportedly looking to expand generative AI into more operational areas. This includes using the technology to assist customer service representatives of AppleCare, its product support service, in helping customers.
Media reports last week suggested that various teams across Apple are working on projects related to generative AI. While there are no specific plans in place yet, Apple's goal is to make a significant AI-related announcement next year.
However, based on previous statements from Apple's senior executives, it seems that compared to other Silicon Valley giants such as Microsoft and Google, Apple's rollout of AI-related products might be far more cautious.
The Wall Street Journal has previously noted that Apple CEO Tim Cook has often expressed optimism about AI technology, yet he has shown restraint when it comes to specific applications, mindful of the potential negative impacts of these technologies.
In May during Apple's first-quarter earnings call, Cook noted that Apple sees the AI wave as monumental and will continue to integrate AI into products in a very thoughtful way. He told analysts that while the potential of AI is tremendous, there are "a lot of problems to solve."
Last month, Cook shared that he personally uses ChatGPT and is excited about its "unique applications." He said these AI tools show a "broad horizon," and Apple is "closely monitoring" them.
However, Cook also warned of serious risks associated with AI, such as bias and misinformation. He suggested that the rapid development of AI requires government oversight and tech companies to take responsibility for self-regulation.
Indeed, as early as May, some media outlets reported that Apple was limiting employees' use of tools like ChatGPT, due to concerns about unintentional leaks of company secrets or the AI system gathering confidential information. Apple warned employees not to use GitHub's AI programming assistant, Copilot.
Reports also emerged that ChatGPT had been on Apple's internal restricted software list for "several months."
