Apple’s iPhone 16 launch could mark its generative AI debut

Apple has confirmed its next launch event for September 19, where the company will unveil the iPhone 16 under the theme “it’s glowtime.” This launch marks Apple’s anticipated entry into the generative AI sector.

The company’s interest in generative AI is not surprising, given how its major competitors, such as Samsung and Google, also integrate generative AI into their mobile phones. The company has also seen dips in iPhone sales across major markets and will expect AI to boost sales.

iPhone 16 to support Apple Intelligence

According to several sources, the iPhone 16 could be the first Apple device to support the much-anticipated Apple Intelligence. This is because all four models of the new iPhone will have the A18 chip, the most advanced iPhone chip currently and specifically designed for AI.

Apple already teased what to expect from Apple Intelligence at the Worldwide Developers Congress in June. At the time, it was revealed that only iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, both with A17 Pro chips, would have the capacity to support Apple Intelligence.

Some expected features include Genmoji, an AI-generated emoji, and a  more advanced Siri. The new Siri will be capable of summarizing emails, answering questions about your schedules, and will work across apps while having onscreen awareness.

The partnership between Apple and OpenAI makes some of the expected features possible. One key feature is the integration of ChatGPT on the latest iPhone models with a generative text writing tool called Writing Tools, which is available across several Apple apps.

Experts cautious in expectations for iPhone 16 AI capabilities

Meanwhile, industry experts do not expect the iPhone 16 to offer major AI features at the time of launch. According to CFRA Research analyst Angelo Zino, Apple will likely release AI features gradually, and more advanced features might not arrive until next year.

He reportedly said:

“This is going to be more of an evolutionary process, rather than some big cyclical, iPhone cycle.”

Others note that Apple is unlikely to launch its AI intelligence immediately with the iPhone 16. Instead, it would make some features available through OS updates and add ChatGPT before the end of the year. Thus, the full AI features may not be available on any iPhone model until early 2025 at best. This would make the iPhone 16 a pioneer in a future where AI will be integral to iPhones.