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  • Siri’s super bowl slip-up: gives eagles 33 fake wins

    Siri’s super bowl slip-up: gives eagles 33 fake wins

    In a recent test, Siri showed it still has trouble with basic facts. One Foot Tsunami’s Paul Kafasis checked how well Siri knew Super Bowl history, and the results were not great. Siri only got it right 34% of the time, correctly naming just 20 winners out of 58 Super Bowls.

    The most surprising mistake was Siri saying the Philadelphia Eagles won 33 Super Bowls. In reality, the Eagles have only won one. Siri’s answers were all over the place, sometimes talking about the wrong Super Bowl or giving unrelated football info.

    Siri did okay for a little while, correctly answering for Super Bowls V to VII, but then it went off track, getting 15 answers wrong in a row from XVII to XXXII. When asked about Super Bowl XVI, Siri even suggested asking ChatGPT, which gave the right answer, showing Siri’s knowledge isn’t up to par.

    This test was done on iOS 18.2.1 with Apple’s new smart tech, and the same problems were seen on the latest iOS beta and macOS. Kafasis put all the results into a spreadsheet you can look at.

    Daring Fireball’s John Gruber also tested Siri with sports questions and found it did worse than other search engines and AI like ChatGPT, Kagi, DuckDuckGo, and Google. Interestingly, the old version of Siri was better at admitting when it didn’t know the answer by showing web links, which at least gave a chance at finding the right answer.

    Gruber was quite critical, saying:

    “New Siri, with Apple’s smart tech and ChatGPT help, gives answers that are completely but believably wrong, which is the worst kind of mistake. It’s also inconsistent in its errors — I asked the same thing four times and got four different wrong answers.”

    Siri’s performance has been criticized before, but these tests show how it can confidently give wrong information. Apple is working on a smarter Siri using advanced language models, hoping to make it as good as other chatbots like ChatGPT. They plan to show off this new Siri in 2025 but won’t release it until spring 2026 with iOS 19.

  • Apple reaffirms commitment to user privacy amidst Siri lawsuit settlement and Apple cash outage

    Apple reaffirms commitment to user privacy amidst Siri lawsuit settlement and Apple cash outage

    In a move aimed at reassuring users about data privacy, Apple has publicly reiterated its dedication to protecting user information collected through its voice assistant, Siri. This announcement comes on the heels of a $95 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit alleging privacy violations related to Siri recordings. Simultaneously, Apple is addressing an ongoing outage affecting its Apple Cash service, causing frustration for many users. 

    The recent lawsuit centered around claims that Siri inadvertently recorded user conversations following accidental activations. Plaintiffs in the case alleged that snippets of these conversations were then shared with third-party advertisers, resulting in targeted ads based on private discussions. Specific examples included individuals claiming to have seen ads for products they had discussed verbally near their Apple devices, such as specific brands of shoes or restaurants, and even ads related to medical treatments discussed with doctors. 

    Apple has consistently denied these allegations, maintaining that Siri data has never been used to create marketing profiles, shared with advertisers, or sold for any purpose. In a statement released earlier this week, Apple explained that the settlement was a pragmatic decision designed to avoid the prolonged and costly process of further litigation, rather than an admission of wrongdoing. 

    To further emphasize its commitment to privacy, Apple has provided a detailed overview of the privacy safeguards built into Siri. A core element of this approach is prioritizing on-device processing. By handling as much data processing as possible directly on the user’s device, Apple minimizes the amount of information that needs to be collected and transmitted to its servers. 

    Apple also emphasizes that Siri searches and requests are not linked to individual Apple accounts. Instead, a randomized identifier is used to track data during processing, ensuring anonymity and preventing the association of Siri activity with specific users. This measure is designed to protect user identity and prevent the creation of individual profiles based on Siri usage.  

    Furthermore, Apple states that it does not retain audio recordings of Siri interactions unless users explicitly opt in to participate in a program designed to improve Siri’s performance. Even when users consent to this program, the recordings are used solely for the purpose of enhancing Siri’s functionality and are not used for any other purpose, such as advertising or marketing. 

    While addressing privacy concerns surrounding Siri, Apple is also currently dealing with a separate issue affecting its Apple Cash service. Users have reported widespread problems with sending and receiving money through the platform, experiencing difficulties such as infinite loading screens and error messages suggesting that Apple Cash needs to be set up even for established users. 

    This multi-hour outage has disrupted peer-to-peer transactions for many Apple users, sparking complaints on social media platforms. Apple has acknowledged the issue on its System Status webpage, confirming that Apple Cash has been experiencing problems since earlier today. The status update indicates that some users are affected and that Apple is working to resolve the issue. 

    It appears that the outage is specifically limited to Apple Cash, Apple’s peer-to-peer payment system similar to services like Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App. Apple Pay, the company’s contactless payment platform for in-store and online purchases, appears to function normally.

    This confluence of events – the Siri lawsuit settlement and the Apple Cash outage – highlights the challenges large technology companies face in maintaining user trust and ensuring the smooth operation of complex digital services. Apple’s proactive approach to addressing both issues, through public statements and ongoing efforts to resolve the Apple Cash outage, demonstrates its commitment to transparency and user satisfaction. The company’s emphasis on privacy protections within Siri aims to rebuild confidence following the lawsuit, while the prompt response to the Apple Cash outage signals a dedication to restoring service functionality as quickly as possible.

    Source/Via

  • Whispers of a Smarter Siri: Apple’s long game in AI assistance

    Whispers of a Smarter Siri: Apple’s long game in AI assistance

    For years, Siri has lingered in the shadow of its competitors. While Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant have steadily evolved, Apple’s voice assistant has often felt like a step behind. This disparity has only become more pronounced with the rise of sophisticated chatbots like ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, which have redefined the landscape of conversational AI. However, whispers from within Apple suggest a significant shift is on the horizon, a transformation that could finally bring Siri into the modern age of intelligent assistance.

    Recent updates to iOS have brought incremental improvements to Siri. Enhancements focusing on on-screen awareness, more granular control within individual apps, and a deeper understanding of user context have offered glimpses of Siri’s potential. These changes, while welcome, feel like stepping stones towards something much grander. The real game-changer, it seems, is still some time away.

    Rumors circulating within the tech community point to a substantial overhaul planned for Siri, one that promises to fundamentally alter the way we interact with our devices.1 This ambitious project centers around integrating advanced large language models into Siri’s core functionality. This isn’t just about faster responses or slightly improved accuracy; it’s about imbuing Siri with a true sense of conversation, enabling it to understand nuanced requests, engage in dynamic back-and-forths, and provide genuinely helpful, context-aware responses.

    Imagine asking Siri a complex question that requires multiple steps or follow-up clarifications. Instead of repeating your request or resorting to a web search, Siri could engage in a natural dialogue, asking clarifying questions, offering suggestions, and ultimately providing a comprehensive and satisfying answer. This is the promise of a truly conversational AI assistant, and it’s what Apple appears to be striving for.

    This transformative update is not expected to arrive overnight. While smaller refinements are expected shortly, the full realization of this conversational Siri is predicted to be a longer-term endeavor. Industry insiders suggest that Apple is aiming for a major unveiling alongside the anticipated release of iOS 19. This would likely involve a preview at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), showcasing the new capabilities and giving developers a taste of what’s to come.

    However, the full rollout of this revamped Siri may not coincide with the initial iOS 19 release. Speculation suggests that the complete conversational experience might not be available until a later update, perhaps iOS 19.4, placing its arrival sometime in the spring of the following year. This phased approach would allow Apple to fine-tune the technology, gather user feedback, and ensure a smooth and polished launch.

    The implications of this upgrade are significant. A truly conversational Siri would not only enhance the user experience across Apple devices but also position Apple to compete more effectively in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. It represents a long-awaited opportunity for Siri to shed its reputation as a lagging competitor and emerge as a powerful, intelligent, and genuinely helpful digital companion. While the wait may be a bit longer, the potential reward appears to be well worth it. This isn’t just an update; it’s a potential reinvention of how we interact with technology, and it could mark a turning point for Siri.

  • The Truth About Siri and Your Privacy: Debunking the myths

    The Truth About Siri and Your Privacy: Debunking the myths

    The digital age has brought incredible convenience to our fingertips, but it has also sparked privacy concerns. One area that frequently comes under scrutiny is voice assistants like Apple’s Siri. Recently, a settlement reached by Apple regarding past practices related to Siri data has reignited these concerns, leading to a flurry of speculation and misinformation. Let’s delve into the facts and separate them from the fiction surrounding Siri and user privacy.  

    In 2019, reports surfaced alleging that Apple used contractors to review a small percentage of Siri interactions. This practice, intended to improve Siri’s accuracy and understanding, involved human evaluation of audio recordings. While Apple maintained that these recordings were anonymized and subject to strict confidentiality agreements, the reports raised legitimate questions about user privacy. 

    Apple responded swiftly, acknowledging the concerns and implementing significant changes to its Siri privacy protocols. One of the most important changes was making the retention of Siri audio recordings opt-in. This meant that, by default, Apple no longer stored recordings of user interactions. Instead, users could actively choose to contribute their data to help improve Siri. Furthermore, Apple committed to using only its own employees for this review process, eliminating the involvement of third-party contractors. Any recordings accidentally triggered were promptly deleted.  

    Fast forward to the present day, and Apple recently agreed to a settlement related to the 2019 concerns. This settlement, however, has been misinterpreted by some as an admission of wrongdoing or evidence of ongoing privacy violations. In reality, Apple explicitly stated that the settlement was intended to put to rest lingering concerns about past practices that had already been addressed. 

    A key point that Apple has consistently emphasized is that Siri data has never been used to build marketing profiles or sold to any third party for any purpose. This is a crucial distinction that often gets lost in the noise. The company maintains that the data collected from Siri interactions, when users opt-in, is solely used to improve the functionality and accuracy of the voice assistant. 

    To further understand Apple’s commitment to privacy, it’s essential to examine the technical safeguards they have in place. Siri interactions are associated with a random, rotating identifier during processing. This identifier is not linked to a user’s Apple ID, phone number, or any other personally identifiable information. After six months, even this temporary association is severed, ensuring further anonymity.  

    Apple also provides users with direct control over their Siri data. Within the Settings app, users can access and review their Siri and Dictation history, giving them the option to delete past interactions. This transparency and control are fundamental to Apple’s approach to privacy.  

    Moreover, certain Siri requests are processed entirely on-device, meaning the data never leaves the user’s iPhone. For example, when Siri reads unread messages, the content of those messages remains on the device and is not transmitted to Apple servers. This on-device processing further minimizes the potential for data exposure.  

    For more complex tasks that require cloud processing, Apple utilizes what it calls Private Cloud Compute. This infrastructure, built on Apple’s own silicon and subject to independent security audits, provides a secure environment for processing data while maintaining user privacy. The architecture is also open to third-party scrutiny and research.  

    In conclusion, while concerns about data privacy in the digital age are valid, it’s important to base our understanding on facts rather than speculation. Apple has taken significant steps to protect user privacy in relation to Siri, from implementing opt-in data collection to employing robust technical safeguards.

    The recent settlement should be viewed as a resolution of past concerns, not as an admission of current privacy violations. Apple has repeatedly and unequivocally stated that Siri data is not used for marketing or sold to third parties. By understanding the facts and the measures Apple has put in place, we can have a more informed and nuanced conversation about the role of voice assistants in our lives.

    Source

  • Siri’s Silent Listen: Apple’s $95 million privacy settlement and what it means for you

    Siri’s Silent Listen: Apple’s $95 million privacy settlement and what it means for you

    For years, the quiet hum of “Hey Siri” has been a ubiquitous part of the Apple ecosystem. But behind the convenience of voice commands, a legal battle has raged over the privacy of those very interactions. Now, that battle is drawing to a close, with Apple agreeing to a $95 million settlement over allegations of unlawful recording and sharing of Siri conversations. This isn’t just about money; it’s a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about digital privacy in the age of voice assistants.

    The lawsuit, initially filed in 2019, accused Apple of intentionally recording user conversations without explicit consent. These recordings, the plaintiffs argued, were then shared with third-party contractors, potentially leading to targeted advertising and other privacy breaches. The core issue revolved around the “Hey Siri” activation feature, which constantly listens for its trigger phrase, raising concerns about what else it might be capturing in the process.

    This wasn’t a small, isolated incident. The lawsuit represented potentially tens of millions of users who owned Siri-enabled devices, from iPhones and iPads to Apple Watches and HomePods. The settlement, if approved by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White in Oakland, California, could see individual users receiving up to $20 per affected device. While the exact distribution process is yet to be finalized, the sheer scale of the settlement underscores the seriousness of the allegations.

    Apple, while agreeing to the settlement, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. This is a common legal strategy in such cases, allowing companies to avoid lengthy and costly trials while mitigating potential reputational damage. However, the settlement doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The initial scrutiny surrounding Siri’s privacy practices back in 2019 prompted Apple to undertake significant internal changes.

    These changes included:

    • Internal Review of Siri Practices: Apple conducted a thorough review of its internal processes related to Siri, including how it used contractors for audio analysis and quality control. This suggests that the initial concerns raised by the lawsuit prompted a reassessment of existing procedures.
    • New Permission Prompts: Apple introduced clearer and more prominent permission prompts for Siri audio recording. This gave users greater control over whether their voice interactions were recorded and used for improving Siri’s performance.
    • “Ask App Not to Track”: This feature, a cornerstone of Apple’s privacy push, allows users to prevent apps from tracking their activity across other apps and websites. While not directly related to Siri, it reflects Apple’s broader focus on user privacy in the wake of these concerns.

    These changes, while positive steps towards greater user privacy, shouldn’t be interpreted as an admission of guilt. They represent an evolution in Apple’s approach to data handling, driven in part by the scrutiny brought on by the lawsuit.

    The $95 million figure is significant, but it’s important to put it in perspective. As reported by Reuters, this sum represents roughly nine hours of Apple’s profit. While a substantial amount of money, it’s a relatively small financial hit for a company of Apple’s size. The real impact lies in the message it sends about the importance of user privacy.

    This settlement isn’t just about Apple. It’s a landmark moment in the broader conversation about the privacy implications of voice assistants. As these technologies become increasingly integrated into our lives, questions about data collection, storage, and usage become ever more critical. This case highlights the need for transparency and user control in how our data is handled.

    The details of how users can claim their share of the settlement are still being finalized. Once the settlement receives final approval, information about the claims process will be made available. It’s advisable to stay updated on this development through reliable news sources and legal updates.

    In conclusion, the $95 million settlement between Apple and users over Siri’s privacy practices is more than just a financial transaction. It’s a reflection of the growing importance of digital privacy in the modern world. It underscores the responsibility of technology companies to be transparent and accountable in how they handle user data. And it serves as a reminder that users have a right to control their own information. While “Hey Siri” may continue to be a part of our daily lives, this settlement ensures that the conversation around its privacy implications will continue as well.

  • Streamlining Siri and Unleashing Creativity: A deep dive into iOS 18.2

    Streamlining Siri and Unleashing Creativity: A deep dive into iOS 18.2

    The relentless march of iOS updates continues, and iOS 18.2 has arrived, bringing with it a suite of enhancements both subtle and significant. Beyond the headline features, I’ve discovered some real gems that streamline everyday interactions and unlock new creative possibilities. Let’s delve into two aspects that particularly caught my attention: a refined approach to interacting with Siri and the intriguing new “Image Playground” app.

    A More Direct Line to Siri: Typing Takes Center Stage

    Siri has always been a powerful tool, but sometimes voice commands aren’t the most practical option. Whether you’re in a noisy environment, a quiet library, or simply prefer to type, having a streamlined text-based interaction is crucial. iOS 18.2 addresses this with a thoughtful update to the “Type to Siri” feature.

    Previously, accessing this mode involved navigating through Accessibility settings, which, while functional, wasn’t exactly seamless. This approach also had the unfortunate side effect of hindering voice interactions. Thankfully, Apple has introduced a dedicated control for “Type to Siri,” making it significantly more accessible.

    This new control can be accessed in several ways, offering flexibility to suit different user preferences. One of the most convenient methods, in my opinion, is leveraging the iPhone’s Action Button (for those models that have it). By assigning the “Type to Siri” control to the Action Button, you can instantly launch the text-based interface with a single press.1 This is a game-changer for quick queries or when discretion is paramount.

    But the integration doesn’t stop there. The “Type to Siri” control can also be added to the Control Center, providing another quick access point. Furthermore, for those who prefer to keep their Action Button assigned to other functions, you can even add the control to the Lock Screen, replacing the Flashlight or Camera shortcut. This level of customization is a testament to Apple’s focus on user experience.

    Imagine quickly needing to set a reminder during a meeting – a discreet tap of the Action Button, a few typed words, and you’re done. No need to awkwardly whisper to your phone or fumble through settings. This refined approach to “Type to Siri” makes interacting with your device feel more intuitive and efficient.

    One particularly useful tip I discovered involves combining “Type to Siri” with keyboard text replacements. For example, if you frequently use Siri to interact with ChatGPT, you could set up a text replacement like “chat” to automatically expand to “ask ChatGPT.” This simple trick can save you valuable time and keystrokes.

    Unleashing Your Inner Artist: Exploring Image Playground

    Beyond the improvements to Siri, iOS 18.2 introduces a brand-new app called “Image Playground,” and it’s a fascinating addition.2 This app, powered by Apple’s on-device processing capabilities (a key distinction from cloud-based alternatives), allows you to generate unique images based on text descriptions, photos from your library, and more.3

    “Image Playground” offers a playful and intuitive way to create images in various styles, including animation, illustration, and sketch.4 The fact that the image generation happens directly on your device is a significant advantage, ensuring privacy and allowing for rapid iteration.

    The app’s interface is user-friendly, guiding you through the process of creating your custom images. You can start with a photo from your library, perhaps a portrait of yourself or a friend, and then use text prompts to transform it. Want to see yourself wearing a spacesuit on Mars? Simply upload your photo and type in the description. The app then generates several variations based on your input, allowing you to choose the one you like best.

    Apple has also included curated themes, places, costumes, and accessories to inspire your creations. These suggestions provide a starting point for experimentation and help you discover the app’s full potential.

    It’s important to note that the images generated by “Image Playground” are not intended to be photorealistic. Instead, they embrace a more artistic and stylized aesthetic, leaning towards animation and illustration. This artistic approach gives the app a distinct personality and encourages creative exploration.

    The integration of “Image Playground” extends beyond the standalone app. You can also access it directly within other apps like Messages, Keynote, Pages, and Freeform. This seamless integration makes it easy to incorporate your creations into various contexts, from casual conversations to professional presentations. Apple has also made an API available for third-party developers, opening up even more possibilities for integration in the future.5

    It’s worth mentioning that while iOS 18.2 is available on a wide range of devices, the “Image Playground” app and other Apple Intelligence features are currently limited to newer models, including the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the iPhone 16 series.6 This limitation is likely due to the processing power required for on-device image generation.

    In conclusion, iOS 18.2 delivers a compelling mix of practical improvements and exciting new features. The refined “Type to Siri” experience streamlines communication, while “Image Playground” unlocks new creative avenues.7 These updates, along with other enhancements in iOS 18.2, showcase Apple’s continued commitment to improving the user experience and pushing the boundaries of mobile technology.

    Source/Via

  • Apple’s Upcoming Updates: Smarter Calendars, advanced Watches, and new payment options

    Apple’s Upcoming Updates: Smarter Calendars, advanced Watches, and new payment options

    Apple is gearing up for exciting changes in 2025, bringing fresh features to its Calendar app, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and PlayStation 5 payment systems. These updates aim to make daily tasks easier and more connected for users.

    The Calendar app might get a big boost with Apple Intelligence, thanks to Apple’s 2024 purchase of Mayday Labs, an AI-powered scheduling company. This could mean smarter ways to organize your day, like automatic task management or better Siri integration for planning.

    The upgrade is likely to appear in iOS 19, making your calendar more helpful and intuitive. Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 is set to launch later this year with three new features focused on connectivity. It will include 5G RedCap for faster, energy-efficient internet, plus satellite connectivity to stay in touch without an iPhone.

    These additions make the watch ideal for adventurers or anyone wanting a smoother, phone-free experience. For gamers, Apple Pay is now available on the PlayStation 5, offering a secure way to buy games and content. During checkout, you scan a code with your iPhone or iPad, then use Face ID or Touch ID to pay.

    This feature, already supported on iOS 18, is also expected to reach the PS4 soon, making purchases safer and more convenient. These updates show Apple’s focus on blending smart technology with everyday tools, from planning your schedule to enjoying games and staying connected on the go.

    Source/Via/Via

  • iPadOS 19 Unveiled: Four awesome features to expect

    iPadOS 19 Unveiled: Four awesome features to expect

    Next month at WWDC 2025, Apple will introduce iPadOS 19, packed with updates to make your iPad experience smoother and more fun. Here’s a peek at four exciting changes coming your way.
    First up, iPadOS 19 will sport a stylish new design, borrowing a vibe from visionOS, the tech behind Apple’s Vision Pro. Think transparent menus and softer, rounded app icons for a fresh, futuristic look. Second, a Mac-like menu bar is being added to apps, making it super easy to jump between tools and settings without fuss.

    Third, multitasking gets a major boost with “Stage Manager 2.0.” This upgrade will let you juggle multiple apps effortlessly, ideal for heavy-duty projects or the foldable iPad and iPhone expected in 2026. Lastly, Apple Intelligence will power up your iPad with smarter features, like a sharper Siri and clever app tricks, to help you work and create like never before.

    These changes blend the iPad’s touch-friendly ease with laptop-level power, setting the stage for Apple’s next big devices. iPadOS 19 is all about making your day easier and more productive. Excited? Share your thoughts! Stay tuned for more Apple updates on 9to5Mac’s site or their social channels.

  • iOS 19 beta set to launch with cool new features

    iOS 19 beta set to launch with cool new features

    Apple is gearing up to unveil iOS 19, its next major iPhone update, with a beta release expected in June 2025, shortly after the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) kicks off on June 9. The official version will likely drop in September 2025, alongside new iPhones, though some features may trickle out later, possibly into 2026.

    iOS 19 will sport a bold new style inspired by the Vision Pro’s visionOS. Picture a glossy, transparent interface with smoother, curvier app icons and a floating navigation bar in apps. This makeover, the most significant since iOS 7, will also refresh iPadOS 19 and macOS 16, creating a seamless look across Apple’s ecosystem.

    Siri’s getting a major boost in iOS 19, powered by enhanced Apple Intelligence. It’ll dive deeper into your emails, photos, and apps, making tasks feel more intuitive. Some of Siri’s advanced tricks might not show up until iOS 19.4 in spring 2026. There’s also buzz about Google Gemini joining ChatGPT as an optional Siri assistant.

    Expect other perks like upgraded Stage Manager for USB-C iPhones, secure RCS texting, real-time translations via AirPods, and a smarter Health app with AI-powered wellness tips. iOS 19 should support iPhone 11 and later models. Post-WWDC, developers will dive into the beta, with a public beta opening up in the summer for eager testers.

  • What’s new with the iPhone 17 Air and Apple Intelligence 2.0

    What’s new with the iPhone 17 Air and Apple Intelligence 2.0

    Apple’s iPhone 17 Air, set to launch in September 2025, promises to be a game-changer with its super-slim design. At just 5.6mm thick, it’s the thinnest iPhone ever, making it a standout compared to the chunkier iPhone 16 Pro models.

    However, there’s a catch: Apple might not make enough of them. Some worry the Air’s compromises, like a weaker battery and fewer cameras, could hurt sales, possibly making it rarer than recent Plus models. With four months until the big reveal, Apple can still ramp up production to meet demand and avoid shortages for this exciting new phone.

    On the software side, Apple Intelligence 2.0 is coming next month, bringing smarter features to your iPhone. Siri is getting a big upgrade, with new abilities that were delayed from iOS 18. Soon, Siri will act more like a human, using advanced Apple AI models to handle tasks better, similar to ChatGPT.

    It will also work more smoothly with third-party apps, making your phone feel more intuitive. These updates aim to make everyday tasks easier and more personal, keeping Apple’s focus on privacy with on-device processing. The iPhone 17 Air’s sleek look and Apple Intelligence 2.0’s smarter Siri could make 2025 a big year for Apple fans. Are you excited for these changes? Share your thoughts.

    Source/Via

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