Apple's highly anticipated artificial intelligence suite, Apple Intelligence, is set to debut later this year, and users can breathe a sigh of relief – it's expected to be free for the foreseeable future.
According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, a respected Apple insider, the tech giant is likely to keep Apple Intelligence features free of charge until at least 2027. This timeline gives Apple ample opportunity to refine and expand its AI offerings before considering any monetization strategies.
The initial rollout of Apple Intelligence will begin with iOS 18.1, focusing on iPhone 15 Pro and future iPhone 16 models. Compatible iPads and Macs running on M1 chips or later will also support these new AI features. However, some advanced functionalities, such as enhanced Siri capabilities, may not be available until 2025.
Apple's approach differs from other AI providers who typically offer limited free queries before charging for continued use. Instead, Apple seems committed to providing a comprehensive AI experience at no cost to users for an extended period.
The current iteration of Apple Intelligence includes several promising features:
- Writing tools
- Basic Siri improvements
- Smart replies in Messages and Mail
- Memory Maker option in Photos
Future updates are expected to introduce Image Playground and Genmoji, among other enhancements.
While Apple may eventually introduce a tiered subscription model similar to iCloud+, with premium features requiring payment, the basic AI functionalities are likely to remain free. This strategy allows Apple to build a robust product and user base before exploring monetization options.
As Apple continues to develop and refine its AI offerings, users can look forward to enjoying these cutting-edge features without reaching for their wallets – at least for the next few years.