iOS 18 Expected to Bring AI Enhancements: Safari Browsing Assistant and Encrypted Visual Search

At the upcoming WWDC 2024 event on June 10, Apple is anticipated to unveil iOS 18, preceding the rollout of its next major software update for eligible iPhone models. While specific details about iOS 18 remain undisclosed by the company, analysis of backend code on Apple’s servers suggests the development of two new AI features.

These potential features, discovered by developer Nicolás Álvarez (@nicolas09F9) and shared on X (formerly Twitter), hint at significant enhancements to Safari browsing and visual search capabilities. The first feature, a Safari browsing assistant, appears to emulate generative AI assistants found in competing browsers, capable of analyzing and summarizing web content.

Coming in iOS 18:
– "Safari browsing assistant"
– "Encrypted visual search"

Both features seem to use the Private Relay infrastructure to send data to Apple (so that they don't know your IP?).

— Nicolás Álvarez (@nicolas09F9) April 10, 2024

The second feature, dubbed Encrypted Visual Search, bears similarities to the existing Visual Look Up feature in Spotlight. It remains uncertain whether iOS 18 will introduce an advanced and more secure iteration of this functionality, which currently identifies elements like plants, pet breeds, and landmarks in images from the Camera Roll.

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Álvarez notes that both features are expected to leverage an Oblivious HTTP gateway, a privacy protocol preventing Apple from identifying multiple requests originating from the same IP address. Speculation suggests Apple may integrate these features with iCloud Private Relay, which typically requires a subscription to iCloud+ or Apple One.

As of now, Apple has not officially confirmed these AI features for iOS 18. Further details are anticipated to be revealed during the WWDC keynote event, where iOS 18, alongside macOS 15 and other operating system updates, is expected to be showcased. Stay tuned for more insights into these developments during the event.