At the 2023 WWDC keynote, Apple made headlines with sweeping announcements on artificial intelligence. This year, the tone shifted. The spotlight moved away from Apple Intelligence, centering instead on updates to operating systems, services, and software. The company also introduced a fresh visual style called “Liquid Glass” and unveiled a new product naming approach.
Still, Apple didn’t abandon AI entirely. The keynote included announcements for an image recognition tool, an AI workout coach, and a live translation feature.
Visual Intelligence
Apple’s Visual Intelligence uses AI to analyze images and deliver contextual information about objects and environments. It can identify plants, describe restaurants, or recognize apparel. With the latest upgrade, it can also interact with on-screen content. For instance, if you spot a post in a social media app, the tool can initiate an image search relevant to what’s shown, drawing on sources like Google Search and ChatGPT. Visual Intelligence will be accessible via the Control Center or a customized Action button, arriving with iOS 26 later in 2025.
Workout Buddy
This AI-driven fitness assistant employs text-to-speech technology to simulate the encouragement of a personal trainer. During a run, it can offer motivational prompts, highlight fastest miles, and share heart rate updates.
Live Translation
Powered by Apple Intelligence, this new feature translates text or speech in real time within Messages, FaceTime, and phone calls, delivering instant communication in the user’s preferred language.
