Apple is reportedly in talks with Foxconn, its primary manufacturing partner, to expand Apple Intelligence servers in Taiwan. This move aims to boost the processing power needed to support the expanding suite of Apple Intelligence features, enabling more users to handle complex tasks across Apple devices. The M2 Ultra chip powers Apple's servers, but there are plans to introduce the newer M4 chip, marking a significant potential upgrade.
A leap in server power with M4 chips
Adding M4 chips to Apple's server infrastructure could substantially elevate the performance of Apple Intelligence features. Though it's unclear which version the M4 Apple may use, options could range from the standard M4 to the M4 Pro, Max, or even an Ultra variant. Leaked Geekbench scores suggest that the M4 Max chip, in particular, could easily surpass the current M2 Ultra, delivering significant gains in processing power.
The potential switch to M4 servers highlights Apple's commitment to AI advancements, especially as consumer demand for artificial intelligence tools rises. With the adoption of M4 chips, users could experience faster and more complex capabilities across Apple devices, enhancing the utility and responsiveness of Apple Intelligence features. However, it remains uncertain if Apple plans to upgrade existing servers or introduce new ones exclusively with M4 chips.
Balancing Foxconn's busy schedule
Foxconn, a crucial player in Apple's supply chain, also handles many AI server orders for Nvidia, which has led to concerns about capacity. Following the success of products like ChatGPT, demand for AI servers has surged, putting additional pressure on Foxconn's production schedule. Some analysts are sceptical that Foxconn will be able to manage Apple's needs alongside its Nvidia commitments, raising questions about possible production delays or the involvement of alternative suppliers.
Apple needs to be faster in the AI race and is only gradually introducing its Apple Intelligence features. Yet the company's recent discussions with Foxconn suggest a renewed focus on expanding its AI capabilities. By investing in more advanced servers, Apple seems poised to offer more sophisticated AI-driven services that can't be handled on personal devices alone.
Upcoming Apple Intelligence features in iOS 18.2
Apple's investment in server upgrades comes as it prepares for a major AI rollout in the iOS 18.2 update, expected in December. New features include “Genmoji,” allowing users to create custom emojis, and “Image Playground,” an image generation tool within various apps. Siri will also receive a major upgrade, with a conversational ability similar to ChatGPT, bringing a noticeable AI enhancement to Apple's ecosystem.
These new features are designed to connect with Apple's Private Cloud Compute models, enabling devices to leverage additional processing power as needed. Apple assures users that this process is secure: when an iPhone or Mac connects to these servers, no personal data is stored on the servers or shared with Apple. Instead, Apple's powerful M2 Ultra chips—or the upcoming M4 chips—perform the required tasks, with only the final results sent back to users' devices.
Apple's focus on privacy in its AI services is a critical selling point, especially given the recent attention to data security in cloud-based AI tools. As Apple Intelligence features roll out, users can enjoy enhanced AI capabilities without compromising privacy.
In an industry rapidly embracing AI, Apple's possible M4 upgrade could be a game-changer, setting the company on a stronger path in the AI arena. Although Foxconn's production capacity may present challenges, Apple's commitment to expanding server power underscores its determination to remain competitive in AI and deliver a more responsive, powerful user experience.
