A strategic maneuver.

Apple knows how to play its cards right.

Amidst the continuous leaks surrounding iOS 19, another significant news has emerged. In Apple's forthcoming software update, watchOS 12 will introduce Apple Intelligence features and plan to revamp its interface.

Yes, you heard it correctly. It's not the phone or the tablet; it's watchOS 12.

According to The Verifier, Apple aims to incorporate design elements from visionOS into watchOS 12. The focus lies on refining menus, icons, and buttons to provide users with a "premium" experience. In fact, as early as watchOS 10 in 2023, Apple had already overhauled the interface. If the rumors prove true, this incremental update makes perfect sense.

Now, talking about visionOS, some might not be acquainted with it. Leveraging its strengths in mimetic glass, shadow layers, and 3D depth perception, it offers a visually stunning effect. In essence, the new interface exudes a futuristic aura.

Image source: Network

Since we're discussing the future, AI is undeniably a must-have.

In today's market competition, major manufacturers have launched related intelligent service functions, such as embedding AI large models in mobile phones. As a company deeply entrenched in the smart device field for years, Apple naturally needs to stay current and enter the competitive market, hence the introduction of Apple Intelligence. On one hand, it aims to avoid lagging behind other brands in artificial intelligence; on the other hand, it seeks to attract more users, particularly those with high demands for intelligent features.

The advent of the Apple Intelligence feature will further fortify the ecological synergy among Apple devices, enabling seamless switching between iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and other devices. Of course, this aligns with the trend in today's smart market. For instance, Xiaomi's ecosystem allows various products to be integrated into a smart home, where a single command can control everything, encompassing all aspects of life.

Apple undoubtedly intends to pursue this direction. Firstly, it aids in enhancing the advantages of Apple's ecosystem; secondly, it fosters greater reliance among users on Apple's product ecosystem, turning them into loyal fans and encouraging them to purchase the full set of devices. Regarding this, I believe everyone has had a similar experience. If you find a brand's products satisfactory, you will keep an eye on its new offerings. If suitable, the likelihood of purchasing products from the same brand will be significantly higher.

So, is it now clearer why Apple intends to introduce Apple Intelligence features in watchOS 12?

Image source: Network

The AI features introduced this time will be upgraded in notification summaries, Genmoji generator, Siri interaction experience, and more, offering users an ultimate new usage experience.

However, honestly, the technology required to implement this feature might raise questions. Since the Apple Intelligence feature necessitates at least 8GB of RAM to run, but the current Apple Watch only has 2GB of RAM... Therefore, if the Apple Watch aims to run AI features independently, it might still have to rely on the iPhone to execute the model.

This routine feels somewhat familiar. To enjoy AI features on the watch, you might also need an iPhone. Wow, what a strategic maneuver, but it does align with Apple's development strategy of ecological synergy.

Image source: Network

Overall, this update strategy for watchOS 12 is not surprising. With the addition of new features, the trend of relying on the iPhone will also resurface. For Apple, this is a win-win decision.

However, the specific impacts of the updated watchOS 12 will only become evident during WWDC in June. Are you eager to see AI features on your Apple Watch?

Source: Lei Technology