Apple’s push into artificial intelligence continues to evolve despite mixed results from its prior efforts. At the WWDC 2025 conference, Apple unveiled several new features for Apple Intelligence, scheduled to launch with iOS 26 and other updated operating systems.
A key highlight is the enhanced Image Playground, designed for the Messages app, allowing users to create colorful backgrounds for group chats. This updated tool will integrate with ChatGPT, enabling the generation of images in various styles. Users employing ChatGPT on their iPhones will have their information shared with OpenAI only with their consent.
Additionally, Genmoji, another feature set to debut, lets users creatively blend two emojis from the Unicode library to innovate playful characters, like combining a sloth with a light bulb to humorously illustrate a slow reaction to a joke.
Apple is also introducing live translation capabilities across its platforms, including Messages and FaceTime. With these new features, messages can be translated into the recipient’s preferred language as you type, while also providing instant translations for responses. FaceTime users will benefit from real-time captions as their conversation partners speak, and voice translations will be available during phone calls.
An upgraded Visual Intelligence tool extends functionalities beyond the iPhone camera, allowing it to scan screens and enhance interactions. With deeper ChatGPT integration, users can ask questions about what they see or search for matching images and products via Google, Etsy, and more. It will even provide timely calendar reminders for events detected in view.
Apple also announced the Foundation Models framework, enabling developers to leverage Apple Intelligence in their applications. This will optimize experiences while maintaining user privacy, allowing for applications like personalized quiz generators in educational tools.
Moreover, an updated Shortcuts app will support actions driven by Apple Intelligence, enabling users to build shortcuts that can compare audio transcripts to their notes. The improved Apple Wallet will also streamline tracking details from merchants and delivery services.
Reflecting on its performance since its introduction in 2024, Apple Intelligence has not lived up to some expectations, particularly with the anticipated enhancements to Siri, which have been delayed. The initial rollout faced challenges, including buggy features that required reworkings for clarity. Nonetheless, the practical focus on user-friendly features noted in the latest announcements signifies a determination to advance and adapt in the competitive AI landscape.
As Apple continues to iterate and refine its AI offerings, there’s optimism that the improvements showcased at WWDC will ultimately lead to a more robust and effective suite of tools, enhancing user experience and privacy.