Apple’s AI Moment is Coming

Starting this fall, it appears Siri is going to be much more powerful. Whether this is good news or a harbinger of infinite technological frustration depends on how you feel about Siri, AI, virtual assistants, and the whole idea that your devices should be able to do stuff on your behalf. Either way, it seems virtually certain that at Apple’s WWDC event on Monday, we’re going to hear an awful lot about how Siri can make your life better.

This year’s WWDC is actually an important one for Apple. CEO Tim Cook and others have been hinting that this is when Apple will reveal its grand plans for AI and end the notion that Apple is somehow behind Google, OpenAI, and the rest. What will it look like, though? Who knows! But it’s going to be AI, and it’s going to be everywhere.

On this episode of The Vergecast, we preview what’s coming at WWDC and whether a heaping helping of AI is actually what Apple devices need. But before we get to that, we run through a laundry list of gadget news, from Intel’s new chips to Humane’s would-be buyers to Palmer Luckey’s new Game Boy. After that, it’s WWDC time.

Once we finish talking about Apple, and how Alex Cranz wants to use AI to ugly up her phone real good, we do a proper lightning round and talk about streaming price hikes, Chromebooks, Elon Musk, and whether $56 billion is enough to motivate someone to care about their job. Tough question, really.

The Week’s Gadget News

Here’s a roundup of the latest gadget news discussed in the episode:

Intel’s New AI Laptop Chip: Lunar Lake

Intel has introduced Lunar Lake, an AI-focused laptop chip that ditches traditional memory sticks in favor of a more integrated approach. This overhaul aims to boost AI processing capabilities, making laptops more efficient and responsive to AI-driven tasks.

Humane’s AI Pin and Acquisition Talks

Humane, the startup behind the AI Pin, is reportedly in talks to sell itself to HP for $1 billion. This comes amid warnings to AI Pin owners to stop using its charging case immediately due to safety concerns.

Raspberry Pi Embraces AI

Even the Raspberry Pi is getting in on the AI action, showcasing the widespread adoption and integration of artificial intelligence across various tech platforms.

Apple’s Thread Radio and Core Count Update

Apple has quietly added a Thread smart home radio to its newest Macs and iPads, enhancing their compatibility with smart home devices. Additionally, Apple corrected the core count for the M2 iPad Air, ensuring accurate performance expectations.

Samsung and Nothing Phone 3 Leaks

A recent Samsung leak reveals a cheaper Galaxy Watch, while Nothing’s Phone 3 is expected to focus heavily on AI applications, indicating a trend towards AI-centric features in upcoming devices.

Asus ROG Ally X and Palmer Luckey’s Game Boy

The Asus ROG Ally X is now official, promising a powerful gaming experience. Meanwhile, Palmer Luckey is selling ultrabright, pixel-perfect magnesium Game Boys for $199, blending nostalgia with modern tech.

WWDC 2024 Preview

Anticipation is building for WWDC 2024, where Apple is expected to make significant AI announcements. Here’s what to look forward to:

Enhanced Siri with iOS 18

iOS 18 is set to give Siri much more control over your apps, potentially revolutionizing how users interact with their devices. This includes AI-driven features like transcription for Voice Memos and Notes, as well as AI-generated emoji.

Non-AI Updates

Besides AI, Apple plans to revamp Settings and Control Center, offering a more intuitive user experience. There’s also speculation about an OpenAI partnership, which could further enhance Apple’s AI capabilities.

Nvidia’s Market Value

In an interesting twist, Nvidia has surpassed Apple in market value, reaching $3.01 trillion. This highlights the growing importance and value of AI-driven companies in the tech industry.

Lightning Round Highlights

Max Raises Prices

Max has increased prices across its ad-free plans, a move that reflects the ongoing trend of rising costs in streaming services.

Google Acquires Cameyo

Google has acquired Cameyo to integrate Windows app virtualization into ChromeOS, enhancing its functionality and appeal to a broader user base.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s Pay Package

Tesla CEO Elon Musk could potentially leave if his $56 billion pay package is not approved, raising questions about the impact of such a significant financial incentive on leadership and company direction.

Conclusion

Apple’s AI moment is on the horizon, and WWDC 2024 promises to be a pivotal event in showcasing how the company plans to integrate AI across its ecosystem. From enhanced Siri capabilities to new device features, the tech world is eagerly watching to see if Apple can close the perceived gap with its competitors. As we await these developments, the broader tech landscape continues to evolve with exciting innovations and market shifts. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as the story unfolds.