Apple’s New AI Model Could Make Siri Less Terrible

Users of the iPhone have complained about Siri for years, but this new AI system could help it understand your requests.

Siri could be getting a much-needed upgrade in the near future, as Apple is reportedly working on an AI model that would get the virtual assistant back in the fight.

AI is being used to improve online platforms across the world. Companies like Google and Microsoft have already rolled out their respective chatbots into Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 in a major way, changing how users do business.

On the other hand, Apple has been comparatively quiet in the AI space, entering into a few partnerships and investing a few million dollars here and there, but not taking any big steps. This news could change that.

What Is ReALM? Apple AI Model Explained

Apple recently published a research paper that points to it releasing a new AI model that will be used to improve Siri’s functionality across the Apple ecosystem. Dubbed ReALM — Reference Resolution As Language Model — the plan for this conversational AI system is that it will largely be used to improve Siri.

More specifically, ReALM will use reference resolution to allow Siri access to better context when responding to queries, the ability to use on-screen content for responses, and the function to detect activities that are happening in the background.

 

About Tech.co Video Thumbnail Showing Lead Writer Conor Cawley Smiling Next to Tech.co LogoThis just in! View
the top business tech deals for 2024 👨‍💻
See the list button

The fact that we learned about ReALM in a research paper shows that it likely isn’t going to be available right away. However, with WWCD coming up in June and Siri 2.0 expected to be announced, it’s safe to assume ReALM could be coming to your iPhone sooner rather than later.

Virtual Assistant AI Revival

Let’s be honest, Siri hasn’t been considered a top virtual assistant for quite some time. Google Assistant and Alexa are far and away the go-to solutions for the majority of users, with most Siri users complaining about the effectiveness of the tool at all.

That could change, though. The evolution of AI technology over the last few years is keenly adept at handling conversations, albeit with a few AI errors here and there. If Apple can harness large language model (LLM) technology to bolster Siri, there’s no reason it shouldn’t be able to make an impact, particularly given it’s the only option for the world’s one billion iPhone users.

Siri isn’t the only virtual assistant making a comeback either. Bixby, the virtual assistant from Samsung that was discontinued in 2020, is getting an injection of AI as well, which could bring it back into the fray for the company’s decidedly popular smartphones.

Did you find this article helpful? Click on one of the following buttons
We're so happy you liked! Get more delivered to your inbox just like it.

We're sorry this article didn't help you today – we welcome feedback, so if there's any way you feel we could improve our content, please email us at contact@tech.co

Written by:
Conor is the Lead Writer for Tech.co. For the last six years, he’s covered everything from tech news and product reviews to digital marketing trends and business tech innovations. He's written guest posts for the likes of Forbes, Chase, WeWork, and many others, covering tech trends, business resources, and everything in between. He's also participated in events for SXSW, Tech in Motion, and General Assembly, to name a few. He also cannot pronounce the word "colloquially" correctly. You can email Conor at conor@tech.co.
Explore More See all news
Back to top
close Building a Website? We've tested and rated Wix as the best website builder you can choose – try it yourself for free Try Wix today