Apple has already set new standards on devices such as the iPhone, iPad and Mac with its AI technology, known as Apple Intelligence. But many are wondering when this innovation will also be available on other Apple products such as the Apple TV or Apple Watch. While the competition, especially Google, is pushing ahead with the integration of artificial intelligence on smart TVs and wearables, Apple has so far kept a low profile. Why is that, and what might the future look like in this area? Below we get to the bottom of the question.
Google recently caused a stir with its AI solution "Gemini". At CES 2025, the company announced that it would bring Gemini to Google TV and Wear OS - the operating system for smartwatches. It's not just about gimmicks, but about real added value: From smart media use to natural voice control and interactive functions, Google shows how AI can make everyday life easier. But while the competition is making great progress, Apple TV and Apple Watch still do not support Apple Intelligence. Instead, Apple continues to concentrate on iPhones, iPads and Macs. Why this focus? And what does that mean for Apple users?
When will Apple Intelligence come to Apple TV and Apple Watch?
The current status
Apple Intelligence is currently only available on devices equipped with modern chips such as the A17 Pro or the M1 and higher. These chips are powerful enough to perform the AI calculations directly on the device - an approach that reflects Apple's focus on data protection. This technology is limited to iPhones, iPads and Macs. Devices such as the Apple TV, Apple Watch, HomePod or Vision Pro do not yet support Apple Intelligence. Apple itself has announced that it will expand the AI functions to more devices in the future, but without giving any specific details or timelines. Owners of an Apple TV or Apple Watch will therefore have to be patient.
The gradual introduction
Apple is rolling out Apple Intelligence in phases. The first phase brought features such as text summaries and writing tools. Later, new features were added such as the integration of ChatGPT in Siri, Genmoji and so-called Image Playgrounds, which allow users to create interactive images. The next phase, expected in spring, is intended to give Siri "onscreen awareness". Siri could then be able to recognize information on the screen and interact with it directly, for example controlling apps or coordinating content between applications. However, these advances are primarily aimed at devices such as the iPhone, iPad and Mac - platforms that offer both the necessary hardware and processing power. For the Apple TV and Apple Watch, these functions would currently only be of limited use because their hardware is not yet designed for them.
Hardware as an obstacle
A crucial point is the technical equipment. Apple Intelligence needs chips that are powerful enough to perform AI calculations directly on the device. The third generation Apple TV, which was released in 2022, has the A15 chip, but this is not sufficient for Apple Intelligence's complex AI applications. The same applies to the Apple Watch: the current processors in the smartwatches simply do not have enough power to support the advanced functions. Rumors suggest that Apple could introduce a new Apple TV with more modern hardware in 2025. However, it remains unclear whether this device will be equipped with a chip that supports Apple Intelligence. For the Apple Watch, the next generation, which is expected to be released in the fall, could offer corresponding hardware improvements at the earliest.
What does the competition do differently?
While Apple is cautious about integrating AI into devices such as smart TVs and smartwatches, Google is betting on a faster implementation. Gemini, Google's AI solution, will offer a host of new features on Google TV, including personalized search results, AI-generated screensavers, and summaries of media content. On Wear OS, Gemini enables more natural interactions with smartwatches, which is especially useful when there is no smartphone nearby. These advances show that it is technically possible to use AI even on devices with limited hardware. Apple, on the other hand, seems to be waiting until the hardware of its devices is powerful enough to meet the strict requirements for privacy and processing power.
Patience required: Apple prioritizes quality and data protection
For anyone hoping to soon be able to use Apple Intelligence on Apple TV or Apple Watch, patience is key. Apple is taking a cautious and gradual approach that prioritizes privacy and user experience. As long as the current hardware of the devices is not powerful enough, the introduction of Apple Intelligence on these platforms remains unlikely. Until then, all we can do is watch the progress of the competition and wait to see how Apple responds to these developments. Looking for the best accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront and discover a variety of products from top providers, including for HomeKit! (Image: Apple)
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