Apple Intelligence focuses on privacy with on-device processing and Private Cloud Compute

Apple Intelligence

Apple rolled out iOS 18.4 to users across the world. For users in India, it’s an important update as it brings Apple Intelligence — company’s AI suite of features — for the first time. As always, Apple is doubling down on privacy with Apple Intelligence. The company says that it is designed to process user data without storing or collecting it. The new system, embedded into iPhones, iPads, and Macs, leverages on-device processing and Apple’s proprietary Private Cloud Compute to maintain security while handling complex tasks.

At the core of Apple Intelligence is on-device processing, which ensures that personal data never leaves a user’s device. By performing AI-driven tasks locally, Apple eliminates the need to send sensitive data to external servers, reducing the risk of data exposure. This approach allows Apple Intelligence to understand user preferences, patterns, and habits while maintaining strict privacy safeguards.

“Apple Intelligence is built on on-device processing, allowing it to understand your personal data without storing or collecting it,” said Apple.

While on-device AI handles most tasks, some requests require more computational power. For these, Apple introduces Private Cloud Compute, a system that runs larger AI models on Apple-managed cloud servers powered by Apple silicon. However, unlike traditional cloud computing, Apple ensures that user data is never stored or retained beyond the duration of a request.

“Our Apple silicon — be it the M-series or A17 or A18 — are the backbone of Private Cloud Compute, delivering an unmatched level of cloud security,” the company stated. Apple’s latest processors are optimized to handle AI workloads efficiently while keeping data secure.

Apple describes Private Cloud Compute as an extension of its security model, allowing users to benefit from AI-driven features without compromising privacy. The company emphasises that every request processed through the cloud remains private, with no data logging or tracking involved.

Apple Intelligence is embedded across Apple’s ecosystem, enhancing apps and features while maintaining a strong commitment to user privacy.