Apple Watch’s new AI features are normalizing the idea that technology is always listening
TechCrunch analyzes Apple's new Watch features, including Audio Intelligence, Live Rewind, and Siri Recap, unveiled at the 'Surprise and Shine' iPhone event. While assistive sound recognition is useful, always-on transcription raises privacy questions and signals a broader industry push toward passive listening AI.
Related Tech News
AI CuratedApple’s new CEO is reviving a Steve Jobs strategy from 25 years ago
In his first keynote as CEO, John Ternus emphasized the iPhone as the intelligent personal hub, contrasting with Tim Cook's attempts to diversify the narrative. This mirrors Steve Jobs' 2001 defense of the PC before the iPod launch, suggesting Ternus may have a similar game-changing product in mind.
Read the Apple document explaining how new listening features still protect your privacy
Apple released a document detailing privacy protections for new Siri AI features like Recap and Live Rewind, stating raw audio is processed in the Secure Exclave on the S11 chip, not saved, and inaccessible to the OS or apps.
How the new Apple Watches compare to the last-gen models
Apple announced the Watch Series 12 ($399) and Ultra 4 ($799) with new S11 processor, health sensor upgrades, and audio transcription capabilities, maintaining base prices while adding ceramic option for Series 12.
(PR) System76 Introduces Thelio Mira AI Workstation
System76 introduced the Thelio Mira AI, a lower-cost workstation optimized for AI workloads. It features dual NVIDIA GPUs and a lower-wattage AMD CPU to maximize GPU power. The system is designed for local AI development and is a new addition to the Thelio Mira lineup.