Apple has joined President Joe Biden’s voluntary AI safeguards, which were introduced to promote responsible AI development and protect consumers from potential risks.
The administration announced that Apple, alongside other major tech firms, committed to these guidelines as part of an Executive Order issued last year. This initiative aims to ensure AI systems are safe and free from discrimination, security vulnerabilities, and national security threats.
Apple joins other major tech firms
By committing to these safeguards, Apple aligns with 15 other major technology companies, including Amazon, Meta Platforms, Google, OpenAI, and Microsoft. These firms pledged to develop AI responsibly, preventing misuse by malicious actors. This move, revealed by the White House, underscores the industry’s effort to self-regulate while minimizing AI-related risks.
The initial commitment to these safeguards was made in July of the previous year, with additional companies like Nvidia, IBM, and Adobe joining the initiative in September. Although the safeguards are not legally binding, they establish a foundation for safer AI development and foster accountability among AI developers. The guidelines require tech companies to test their AI systems and share the results with academia, governments, and civil society. President Biden’s Executive Order mandates that AI systems undergo testing before being eligible for federal procurement.
Apple’s AI plans align with safeguards
Apple’s decision to join this initiative aligns with its ongoing AI development plans. The company intends to introduce a cohesive AI system and integrate OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its iPhone voice command assistant. Despite opposition from Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has criticized the integration of OpenAI systems as a security risk, Apple remains committed to its AI strategy.
Apple has announced that its AI system, Apple Intelligence, will be supported by the iPhone 15 Pro Max and upcoming iPhone models. Devices equipped with M-series Apple Silicon chips for the Mac and iPad will also support Apple Intelligence. Although this AI technology is not yet available in beta for iOS 18, iPad, or macOS, Apple plans to release some features in beta, with a public release expected by the end of the year.
Future enhancements and industry impact
In addition to the current developments, Apple has indicated plans for further enhancements. Upgrades to its AI assistant, Siri, are scheduled for release in the spring of 2025. These enhancements will leverage in-app actions and personal context to improve user experience. While AI technology continues to grow rapidly, it has faced criticism for perpetuating biases. President Biden has highlighted AI’s benefits and potential dangers, urging firms to focus on responsible development.
The adoption of voluntary AI safeguards by major tech firms, including Apple, marks a significant step toward ensuring the responsible advancement of AI technology. These measures reflect a collective effort to mitigate the risks associated with AI while fostering innovation and protecting consumer interests.