In a report describing new AI Coding and Testing Features coming to Xcode later this year, Bloomberg also share Some interesting details about the ways Apple is considering using AI to power Spotlight. The report describes a version of Spotlight that is much more powerful than what we have today, thanks to the use of generative AI.
AI Updates for Spotlight Search
Spotlight Search is Apple's search utility that is available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. In addition to allowing users to find documents and files saved on their devices, it can also search the web, the App Store, and perform other rudimentary tasks. .
Today's report says that this "revamped version of Spotlight" powered by large language model technology is "under consideration" within Apple. This would give Spotlight the ability to perform more complex tasks, link to specific apps, and more.
The new version could switch between specific features within apps and answer complex questions based on data trained from large language models. LLMs, the technology that powers artificial intelligence tools, are developed by bombarding software with a torrent of data.
Early designs in the Spotlight review include the use of LLM to answer more complex questions and the ability to drill down into apps to launch specific features. The current version of Spotlight is mostly limited to launching apps, performing basic web searches, and getting information like the weather and sports scores.
At the moment, it is not known when, or if, this new version of Spotlight will see the light of day. Bloomberg it simply says that it is something Apple is considering as part of its adoption of AI across its platforms.
9to5Mac's opinion
While the rumored AI coding and testing features for Xcode sound great for developers, I'm not the target audience for that. However, I am very excited at the prospect of a more powerful version of Spotlight Search.
There are Spotlight alternatives on Mac that are much more powerful than Apple's offering. like Raycast and Alfred. While they're great on the Mac, Apple doesn't offer developers a way to beat Spotlight on iPhone and iPad.
In fact, I'd argue that a more powerful version of Spotlight Search is one of the best ways Apple could implement LLM technology on iPhone and iPad (aside from improving Siri, of course).
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