The Rise and Fall of AI Gadgets and Apple’s Latest Ambitions
The Rollercoaster of AI Development
In the not-so-distant future, the tech world’s response to the rise of AI over the last few years will be studied. It’s been a rollercoaster of hasty pivots, rushed launches, and occasionally, impressive breakthroughs. However, while generative AI models have taken the internet by storm, several attempts to create ‘AI gadgets’ have failed.
The Flop of AI Gadgets
From the Rabbit R1 to the Humane Pin, various AI gadgets fell on their faces last year. But perhaps the most surprising flop of all has come courtesy of Apple, whose lofty claims about Apple Intelligence and Siri’s transformative potential for the iPhone are yet to materialise.
Apple’s Latest Ambitions
According to new reports, Apple is working on turning Apple Watches into "AI devices with cameras" by 2027. Mark Guran, an Apple leaker, claims that the company is considering adding cameras to both its standard Series watches and Ultra models, which would allow the Watch to use AI features such as Visual Intelligence. Currently limited to the iPhone 16 lineup, Visual Intelligence lets you quickly learn more about the places and objects around you using the iPhone’s camera.
A Misguided Focus on AI?
However, it’s clear from an increasing chorus online that Apple’s focus on AI is starting to feel misguided. "Instead of trying to justify their spend on AI by adding useless tech to other projects, they should just transfer those teams to other more promising programs and admit they made a misstep," one Redditor comments in response to the report. Another adds, "Apple, I will buy a toothbrush from you if you would please stop with your AI obsession". And there are plenty of comments lamenting the state of Siri itself: "I just want to be able to ask Siri to open my garage without her going ‘okay’ and then turning on every light in my house."
Conclusion
With Apple’s AI-improved Siri missing in action (which is allegedly causing serious tension in the company) and dedicated AI gadgets flopping left and centre, it’s hard to get excited about the idea of an ‘Apple Intelligence Watch’.
FAQs
Q: What are the latest developments in Apple’s AI efforts?
A: Apple is reportedly working on turning Apple Watches into "AI devices with cameras" by 2027.
Q: Why is there a lack of excitement about the Apple Intelligence Watch?
A: The lack of excitement stems from Apple’s AI-improved Siri being missing in action and dedicated AI gadgets flopping left and centre.
Q: What are some of the criticisms of Apple’s focus on AI?
A: Some critics argue that Apple is devoting too many resources to AI, rather than focusing on more promising areas. Others are frustrated with the lack of tangible benefits from Apple’s AI efforts, such as Siri’s limitations.
