We recently had the privilege of attending an exclusive launch event where we experienced an Apple event firsthand. Lance Van Rooyen, the head of the iStore business, shared exciting insights into Apple’s approach to Artificial Intelligence (AI).

As someone passionate about technology, I was impressed by Apple’s commitment to both privacy and innovation in the field of AI. We spent the morning at the iStore in Sandton, where we gained valuable knowledge about one of Apple’s most exciting new developments: Apple Intelligence, which is set to be a game-changer and elevate your entire technology experience to new levels. Not only will it enhance the technological aspects, but it will also make your experience more personal, fun, and enriching.

Some of the key takeaways from the event were:

Privacy First

Lance emphasized that privacy is a top priority when it comes to AI, and Apple has approached it in a way that sets a high standard for the industry. Unlike other AI models, Apple Intelligence is designed with privacy in mind from the ground up. This approach is both refreshing and essential in today’s digital age. Apple ensures that your data is protected and does not get shared with third parties, offering you convenience in the most secure way possible.

The Power of Apple Intelligence

Apple has been incorporating AI into its products and services for over a decade, from Siri to camera features like Portrait mode. The latest development, Apple Intelligence, takes it to the next level. With the advanced chipsets and GPUs in Apple devices, users can now run large language models directly on their devices, making AI more accessible and integrated into daily life. AI is not new to Apple; it has been gradually introduced through smaller updates and features. Something as simple as the evolution of iPhone cameras—enabling portrait photography—is powered by AI, though we may not have always recognized it. So, AI is not a novel concept; we’ve been using it without even realizing it.

Seamless Integration

What sets Apple Intelligence apart is its focus on enhancing everyday apps and services with subtle yet meaningful improvements. It’s not about opening separate apps or disrupting your workflow; Apple Intelligence is designed to fit seamlessly into how you already use your Apple devices. Whether you’re on an iPad or Mac, the experience is cohesive, transforming how you interact with Apple products. This integration makes your experience with your devices smoother and more personalized.

The Future of AI

Lance shared fascinating statistics on AI adoption, noting that 75% of knowledge workers are already using AI in some form, and 72% of corporate leaders are using generative AI on a weekly basis. The appointment of Chief Artificial Intelligence Officers in companies further underscores AI’s transformative potential. While some may assume AI is here to replace us, the reality is that it is here to enhance our lives and make everyday tasks easier and more efficient. There’s still so much more to explore in the world of AI, and Apple is excited to lead the way, bringing us along on this journey from the comfort of our devices.

Apple Intelligence is available on all models from the iPhone 15 range to the anticipated M4 Mac. An exciting new feature is that you can now visit any Apple dealership and receive free training on the cool new features of Apple Intelligence—at no cost! It’s a great opportunity to get into the tech space and prepare for the future that Apple Intelligence will bring.

Apple Intelligence represents a significant milestone in AI innovation, prioritizing privacy and enhancing the user experience. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of technology, we can expect even more exciting developments that will revolutionize how we work and interact with tech. The future of AI looks bright, and Apple is leading the way.