During Apple's recent shareholder meeting, CEO Tim Cook hinted at forthcoming plans involving generative artificial intelligence (AI), as reported by CNBC on February 28.

Cook mentioned during the call:

"Later this year, I look forward to sharing with you the ways we will break new ground in generative AI, another technology we believe can redefine the future."

He elaborated that Apple sees "incredible breakthrough potential" for generative AI and is making substantial investments in the field. Additionally, he emphasized how generative AI could offer transformative opportunities for users by enhancing productivity and problem-solving capabilities.

Cook highlighted that some Apple services already leverage AI, such as the hand-tracking feature in the Vision Pro VR headset, heart rate alerts on the Apple Watch, and automatic emergency calling on the iPhone. These comments echo his statements from August 2023 when he emphasized the integration of AI across virtually every Apple product.

Contrary to certain cloud-based AI services, reports from Reuters suggest that Apple's AI services may rely partly on users' devices. Cook stated:

"Every Mac powered by Apple silicon is an extraordinarily capable AI machine ... there’s no better computer for AI on the market today."

While Apple has not yet publicly announced new AI features, a report from Bloomberg on February 15 hinted at the development of a feature for its Xcode development software, competing with Microsoft's GitHub Copilot. Both tools utilize AI to predict and complete code.

Other potential features include AI-generated music playlists, Keynote presentations, and an AI-driven Spotlight search tool.

In a separate Bloomberg report, it was revealed that Apple has terminated its decade-long electric car program and will reallocate some staff to focus on AI development.

Furthermore, Apple shareholders rejected a proposal requiring the company to produce a transparency report focusing on the ethical use of AI. The proposal aimed to address various AI-related social policy concerns, including potential biased decisions against employees, privacy breaches affecting customers, and the risk of layoffs due to automation. The AFL-CIO Equity Index Funds, which proposed the disclosure plan, has also made similar requests to other companies such as Disney, Netflix, and Warner Bros., expressing concerns about using intellectual property in AI training.