Apple has introduced a new set of AI-powered features, collectively known as "Apple Intelligence", which are available as part of the iOS 18.1 and macOS Sequoia 15.1 beta releases. These features allow users to perform tasks such as rephrasing text and summarising emails or messages.
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Privacy at the Forefront
Apple Intelligence leverages both on-device and online language models, but prioritises user privacy by employing Private Cloud Compute (PCC) modules. These modules, built with Apple's own silicon and a secure operating system, process online requests with end-to-end encryption, ensuring that even Apple itself cannot access user data. All data is permanently deleted once processing is complete.
Apple emphasises the robust security of PCC, stating: "For the first time ever, Private Cloud Compute extends the industry-leading security and privacy of Apple devices into the cloud, making sure that personal user data sent to PCC isnât accessible to anyone other than the user â not even to Apple. Built with custom Apple silicon and a hardened operating system designed for privacy, we believe PCC is the most advanced security architecture ever deployed for cloud AI compute at scale."
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Transparency and Control
Apple has taken further steps to ensure user transparency by providing a detailed "Apple Intelligence Report" within the Privacy & Security settings of compatible devices running iOS 18.1 or macOS 15.1 beta. This report, which can be exported for review, outlines how user requests have been processed, detailing whether they were handled on-device or through Apple's PCC.
Users can access the report after authenticating with Face ID or Touch ID, preventing unauthorised access to sensitive data. The report is generated automatically and stored on the device for 15 minutes by default, but users can adjust the settings to keep it for 7 days or disable it entirely.
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Hardware Requirements and Availability
It is important to note that Apple Intelligence is only available on newer Apple devices: iPhone 15 Pro models, Macs with M1 chips or later, and iPads with M1 chips or later. The feature will not be available in the official release of iOS 18.0 and macOS 15.0 this autumn.
Apple's commitment to privacy and transparency in its implementation of AI features sets a high bar for other tech companies. As AI continues to play a larger role in our lives, it is vital that users are given control over their data and understand how it is being used. Apple's approach with Apple Intelligence suggests a responsible and user-centric path forward for the future of AI.