In the highly competitive world of artificial intelligence (AI), Apple is making strategic moves to strengthen its position. Recent reports indicate a series of acquisitions, team reorganizations, and fresh hiring to bolster AI capabilities in iPhones. This marks a significant shift for Apple, known for its relative silence in the AI race compared to competitors like Google and Amazon.

A key area of focus for Apple's AI endeavors is Siri, the company's virtual assistant. Siri, which has lost competitive ground to Google Assistant, may soon be supercharged with deep learning and Large Language Models (LLM) similar to those powering tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard. This approach could transform Siri into a more powerful and intelligent assistant, capable of handling complex tasks and offering more personalized experiences to users.

Apple's acquisition spree in the AI sector is noteworthy. The company is reported to be the biggest buyer of AI companies, underscoring its commitment to integrating cutting-edge AI technologies into its products. The acquisitions aim to enhance Apple's in-house AI development capabilities, positioning the tech giant to innovate independently rather than relying on licensed products from other companies.

One significant development is the introduction of a large language model called Ferret, developed in partnership with experts at Columbia University. This model indicates Apple's intent to develop advanced AI technologies that can seamlessly integrate with its ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Apple is expected to unveil a series of generative AI-based tools at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. These tools, likely to be featured in the upcoming iOS 18, are anticipated to enable generative AI on iPhones, including potentially powering Siri with an LLM. This move could revolutionize how users interact with their devices, offering more intuitive and intelligent functionalities.

Apple's AI strategy is not just about enhancing existing products; it also involves preparing for future innovations. The company's focus on AI signals a shift towards more intelligent and autonomous systems, which could redefine user experiences across its product range.

In summary, Apple's recent activities in the AI domain showcase a deliberate and strategic effort to stay competitive and lead in the AI race. With its vast resources, talent pool, and history of innovation, Apple is well-positioned to make significant advancements in AI, potentially reshaping the tech industry and consumer technology as we know it.