Apple’s latest updates include a feature called Writing Tools, designed to assist users with rewriting, proofreading, and summarizing text throughout the operating system. This tool modifies the tone from casual to professional and corrects typos and grammar issues. However, its visibility could be improved, as it only appears when words are highlighted. A dedicated button on the virtual keyboard might enhance accessibility.
Siri now allows users to type commands, a feature previously limited to accessibility settings. This update brings Siri in line with competitors like Alexa and Google Assistant, which have long offered this capability. The new design includes a glowing effect on the screen, with improved comprehension of user queries, even if word choices are jumbled. Nevertheless, in everyday usage, Siri feels quite similar despite the aesthetic upgrades, leaving some users underwhelmed.
Additionally, users can utilize Smart Replies, which are AI-generated quick responses based on ongoing conversations in Messages and Mail. While this feature provides convenience, it isn’t particularly novel considering Gmail has incorporated a similar function since 2017.
Summarization is another significant aspect of Apple’s new intelligence. Users can obtain brief overviews of web pages and notifications. In group chats, the summary emphasizes important messages, allowing users to delve further for detailed information. However, reports indicate that these summaries can be convoluted and lead to confusion.
For example, one user’s summary referenced “medical emergency” in a work context, prompting unnecessary concern. The actual email clarified that a colleague’s delayed response was due to a medical emergency but mentioned they were fine. Thus, while the feature aims to streamline information processing, it may inadvertently mislead users, drawing them into notifications that lack importance.