Apple's latest AI update ignites creative and ethical debate
"The new tools may perhaps prove the most controversial" - reports "The Independent". An Apple software update introduces generative artificial intelligence features that let users create images of friends or family. This option is already available in select countries.
Apple has released a significant update that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) on iPhones and other platforms. This update is part of the Apple Intelligence suite unveiled in June and has been gradually rolling out to iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices over recent months. The suite includes an updated version of Siri and summaries of long or numerous notifications.
You'll be able to generate a friend or family member
The new tools introduce generative AI features that allow users to create images or emojis. While these features have sparked enthusiasm, they have also faced ongoing criticism from designers and others who worry they may undermine creative work. Apple's generative features are relatively limited. They include Genmoji, which lets users create new emojis, a Magic Wand feature that transforms illustrations into more developed images, and an application called Image Playgrounds dedicated to image creation.
What might prove most controversial? According to the British newspaper "The Independent," users can create images using AI from various prompts—including photos of friends and family. They can select a person and then request an image depicting them engaged in a specific activity or in an imaginary background. Apple has implemented restrictions to prevent the creation of abusive or problematic images.
The latest updates also introduce Apple Intelligence features to the United Kingdom for the first time. Previously, they were only available in the United States. These features remain unavailable in many regions, including Europe, primarily due to language issues and regulatory concerns.
The new update is now available with iOS and iPadOS 18.2, as well as MacOS Sequoia 15.2. It can be downloaded from the Settings app.
