Apple's most advanced on-device AI features will only work on select devices

Apple Intelligence: Not All Devices Are Created Equal for Advanced AI

Apple recently unveiled a suite of exciting new Apple Intelligence features at WWDC 2024, including a significantly upgraded Siri. However, it appears that the most potent on-device AI capabilities will be exclusive to a select group of Apple hardware. The tech giant has confirmed that its most advanced on-device AI model has a stringent requirement: a minimum of 12GB of unified memory.

This powerful AI model is the engine behind several groundbreaking Apple Intelligence functions. These include advanced Siri functionalities like more natural and expressive voice options, as well as significantly improved dictation accuracy.

Which Apple Devices Will Power the Next Generation of AI?

For iPhone users, access to these cutting-edge features will be restricted to the:

• iPhone 17 Pro
• iPhone 17 Pro Max
• iPhone Air

All of these models come standard with the required 12GB of unified memory. Unfortunately, the standard iPhone 17, equipped with 8GB of RAM, will not meet the threshold and therefore will not be able to run these advanced AI features.

iPad users will need models featuring the M4 chip or newer, paired with at least 12GB of unified memory. Mac users will find support on devices equipped with an M3 chip or later, also with 12GB of RAM or more. Even the innovative Apple Vision Pro, when equipped with the M5 chip, will be able to leverage these advanced AI capabilities.

The highly anticipated Apple Intelligence and advanced Siri AI features are slated for release later this year within iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia.

Source