Artificial intelligence is currently the dominant topic in the tech world. Companies present new tools and models almost daily. But the more powerful the systems, the greater the concern about data protection. Many of these AI solutions process user data centrally on servers – often without clear transparency about what happens to the information. This is precisely where Apple is taking a different approach: Apple Intelligence aims to demonstrate that modern AI and data protection are indeed compatible.
Apple has placed personal data protection at the heart of its devices and software for years. The introduction of its own AI features was therefore a critical moment: Can Apple keep its privacy promises in the AI age? Many people asked this very question before the launch of Apple Intelligence. The answer is a complex system of on-device models, a private cloud infrastructure, and restrictive data agreements with third parties. These details clearly demonstrate the effort Apple puts into protecting user data.
On-device models: AI remains on the device
At the heart of Apple Intelligence are AI models that run directly on the device. This means requests like Genmoji, notification summaries, or intelligent Siri responses are processed locally on the iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Data like message content, photos, or appointments remain on the device and are not transferred to external servers. However, this requires a significant amount of processing power and memory. Therefore, Apple Intelligence is only available on devices with at least 8 GB of unified memory—currently, this applies to the iPhone 15 Pro, the iPhone 16, and all iPads and Macs with the M1 chip or newer. Earlier iPhone models are simply not technically designed to run large language models locally.
Apple Foundational Models: AI for developers without data risk
Apple is also making its own AI models available to developers. This means that app developers will be able to integrate features based on Apple's on-device AI in the future – without having to rely on providers like OpenAI or Google Gemini. This reduces the number of external data processors and protects user privacy, even when using third-party apps. The so-called Apple Foundational Models thus expand the range of applications of Apple Intelligence without compromising data protection.
Private Cloud Compute: Cloud usage without data storage
Not every request can be processed efficiently locally. Therefore, Apple uses a proprietary cloud solution called Private Cloud Compute for more complex tasks.
- What’s special about it: The infrastructure is designed in such a way that no user data is stored permanently – and this can even be verified.
Apple has made all software images of Private Cloud Compute public. This allows independent security researchers to verify that the systems truly do not store or transmit any data. Apple has also secured the service so that neither Apple nor external attackers can access user data. Private Cloud Compute is currently being used more frequently, especially with iOS 26. For example, Siri can send advanced shortcuts to the cloud models without users having to forgo transparency or control.
ChatGPT integration: No data without consent
Apple has also reached an agreement with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT directly into iOS – albeit with clear data protection requirements. User requests to ChatGPT are only transmitted with the user's prior consent. Furthermore, the contract stipulates that OpenAI will not store these requests or use them to train future models. Particularly important in this context: Apple uses special Zero Data Retention APIs. These interfaces ensure that OpenAI never stores user data. Even the current legal dispute between the New York Times and OpenAI does not change this, as business customers like Apple are exempt from data retention requirements. Therefore, anyone who speaks to ChatGPT via Siri is using one of the most privacy-friendly ways to interact with AI models like GPT.
Apple Intelligence: Technology with Responsibility
Apple Intelligence follows a clear course: AI functions are designed to make everyday life smarter without giving up personal data. Through on-device models, transparent cloud solutions, and privacy-friendly integrations like ChatGPT, Apple is demonstrating that progress is possible without surveillance. The device requirements are high, but this is precisely what ensures Apple retains full control over data processing. This way, data protection remains not just a promise, but an integral part of the system architecture. Want to get the most out of Apple Intelligence? Then take a look at our collection of tips and tricks for the individual functions – with practical examples, hidden settings, and real everyday helpers. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / NRSPro)
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Frequently Asked Questions about Apple Intelligence
Apple Intelligence is Apple's own AI platform that enables smart features like Genmoji, Siri enhancements, and notification summaries directly on the device—with a special focus on data protection.
Apple Intelligence largely processes requests locally on the device. For more complex tasks, Apple uses a private cloud infrastructure that stores no user data and is auditable by independent experts.
No. Many functions run directly on the device, but for more complex tasks, Apple uses "Private Cloud Compute." No data is stored, and Apple publishes the software openly for review.
Apple Intelligence requires at least 8 GB of RAM. It is currently supported on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, iPhone 17, or later, as well as all iPads and Macs with the M1 chip (and A17 Pro) or later.
Running large language models directly on the device requires significant performance and fast memory access. Therefore, older devices are not compatible.
Apple has agreed with OpenAI that requests to ChatGPT will only be sent with explicit consent. The data will not be stored or used for training purposes.
Private Cloud Compute is Apple's secure server solution for AI processing. It stores no user data and is designed to prevent even Apple from accessing content.
No. Apple Intelligence is designed to neither store nor use user data to train models—either locally or in the cloud.
Yes. With the so-called Apple Foundational Models, developers can integrate AI features into their apps without sharing user data with third parties.
Yes. Compared to cloud-based solutions like Google Gemini or traditional OpenAI services, Apple relies on local processing, transparent cloud technology, and full user control.
