Apple is currently grappling with one of its biggest challenges in history, as Apple Intelligence fails to launch as anticipated. However, AI isn’t the only obstacle Apple is facing; it is also at risk of losing its $20 billion search engine deal with Google. Notably, Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, testified in the high-profile case and made a statement suggesting a significant shift in Apple’s future strategy.
It’s no secret that Apple has struggled to create another viral, money-making product since the launch of the first iPhone in 2007. The company has ventured into several projects, including an AR/VR headset and an electric car, but the results have been less than impressive. Now, Eddy Cue’s statement suggests that Apple may be preparing to embark on its next big project.
Artificial Intelligence is undeniably the future, and Apple has been working to bring AI to the forefront. According to Bloomberg, Eddy Cue mentioned that, in 10 years, the iPhone could potentially be replaced by AI.
“You may not need an iPhone 10 years from now as crazy as it sounds. The only way you truly have true competition is when you have technology shifts. Technology shifts create these opportunities. AI is a new technology shift, and it’s creating new opportunities for new entrants.”
Eddy Cue, SVP Apple
Although Eddy’s comments primarily focused on the future of search during his appearance at the Google vs. DoJ antitrust case, his statement suggests that AI, particularly AI-driven search, could become a key player in the future. It could be significant enough to make the iPhone obsolete within the next decade.
So far, Apple has faced challenges in the AI space, with delayed features, misleading advertisements, and unfinished functionalities. Siri’s contextual awareness, for example, is expected to launch “in the coming year.” Despite the growing presence of AI in smartphones, the idea of the iPhone becoming obsolete by 2035 seems a bit far-fetched.
Eddy also mentioned that Apple plans to integrate AI search options into Safari after seeing a drop in searches on the platform in April this year. According to him, traditional search engines will eventually fade out, replaced by AI-powered platforms hence the move to adapt.
As for whether AI will replace the iPhone by 2035, it’s hard to say. AI will likely evolve and become deeply integrated into devices, but the iPhone’s role in personal tech is still strong. It’s possible AI will change how we interact with technology, but completely replacing the iPhone might not happen that quickly. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!