Apple’s recent WWDC keynote highlighted “Apple Intelligence,” a suite of AI features touted to revolutionize how you use your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. But according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple’s vision for AI might be a little less, well, democratic than it seems.
While Apple Intelligence will be free in its initial beta phase launching this fall (most likely in select markets only), Gurman suggests a tiered system is on the horizon. A basic, free version will exist, but to unlock its full potential, users likely need to pay for an “Apple Intelligence+” subscription.
This isn’t exactly surprising as other companies have been doing the same with OpenAI’s ChatGPT Plus and Google’s Gemini Advanced.
Gurman points to a potential slowdown in device upgrades. With people holding onto their iPhones and iPads for longer, Apple might be looking to services as a more reliable source of income. Apple Intelligence+ could be a way to keep the money flowing, even if the upgrade cycle sputters.
Gurman also suggests Apple might take a cut from any AI partner integrations within the platform. Thus, making Apple Intelligence a significant revenue stream for the company.
Of course, this is all speculation based on Gurman’s report. But it paints a fascinating picture of how Apple might be looking to monetize its AI future.
Here’s hoping the free tier remains truly functional, and the premium features justify the extra cost. Otherwise, Apple might risk alienating its user base with yet another subscription layer.
