Apple is quietly working on a generative AI system through a new internal unit known as the “Answers, Knowledge and Information” team.

This initiative aims to create an in-house alternative to ChatGPT and integrate it across Siri, Safari, and Spotlight. While pricing has yet to be announced, these AI features are expected to become part of Apple Intelligence in 2026.

What happened

The new “Answers” team is led by Robby Walker, a former Siri executive, and focuses on improving Apple's search experience with generative AI. The team was formed earlier in 2025 and is composed of engineers working to build a faster, more context-aware search and assistant tool.

Apple reportedly plans to embed this technology across its ecosystem to enhance real-time information delivery, search accuracy, and natural conversation flow.

This development aligns with Apple's broader push into artificial intelligence. So far in 2025, the company has acquired at least seven small AI firms and is reportedly exploring larger acquisitions to catch up with competitors like OpenAI, Google, and Meta.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has emphasised the company’s increased investment in AI technologies, particularly after delaying some Siri improvements to 2026.

Apple’s AI division has also seen talent shifts, with some researchers leaving for rival firms. Despite this, the Answers team appears to be Apple’s strongest attempt yet to create a proprietary AI model that is deeply embedded within its ecosystem.

iPhone 17 Pro prototype spotted in public

Separately, a prototype believed to be the iPhone 17 Pro was recently spotted in San Francisco. Although encased in a thick black cover to conceal its final design, the device appeared to feature a horizontal camera layout.

In addition, the new model could feature a relocated flash and a repositioned LiDAR sensor. This sighting suggests notable design changes for the upcoming iPhone lineup.

The iPhone 17 series is expected to be announced in early September 2025, with anticipated improvements to both design and performance.

The Pro and Pro Max models may include the new A19 Pro chipset, expanded RAM, upgraded zoom capabilities, and improved thermal management.

Specifications list: iPhone 17 Series (rumoured)

The following are the expected features for the iPhone 17 lineup based on current leaks:

• A19 / A19 Pro chipset
• Up to 12 GB RAM
• ProMotion OLED display with 120 Hz refresh rate (all models)
• Front camera: 24 MP
• Rear camera (Pro Max): triple 48MP sensors with up to 8× optical zoom
• Battery (iPhone 17 Air): around 2900mAh
• New thermal management system (Pro models): vapour chamber cooling
• Material changes: aluminium frame for Pro models, replacing titanium
• Expected colour options: Orange, Light Gold, Dark Blue, Green, and new pastel finishes
• Four models: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max

Apple is stepping up its AI game while preparing a major iPhone design refresh. Will its in-house AI assistant be enough to challenge ChatGPT, and are you excited about the redesigned iPhone 17 Pro?

Stay tuned to TechNave.com for more updates.