Apple is collaborating with Anthropic to develop an AI-driven coding tool designed to enhance Xcode, Apple’s software development environment, according to a report from Bloomberg. This upcoming iteration of Xcode will feature Anthropic’s Claude Sonnet model, which is intended to assist programmers in writing, editing, and testing code.
At this stage, Apple is rolling out the new version internally and has not yet confirmed a public release. Developers will benefit from a chat interface that enables them to input requests, test user interfaces, and manage bug fixes, according to the report. Technology News reached out to Apple for comments but did not receive an immediate response. Anthropic spokesperson Danielle Ghiglieri also declined to provide details.
Executives from major tech companies have emphasized the role of AI in streamlining their coding processes. For instance, Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella claimed that up to 30 percent of the code in certain projects has been generated by AI tools. In related news, OpenAI is reportedly looking into acquiring the AI-powered coding tool Windsurf for $3 billion, potentially improving ChatGPT’s coding capabilities. Additionally, Apple announced its own AI-driven coding aid called “Swift Assist” during WWDC 2024, but it has yet to be released, as noted by Bloomberg.
The introduction of this new tool could position Apple advantageously as the company seeks to bolster its AI initiatives, which have lagged behind competitors. Recently, Apple postponed the launch of its updated Siri, acknowledging in a statement that the rollout will take longer than anticipated after its announcement in June 2024. Notably, oversight of Siri has transitioned from AI chief John Giannandrea to Mike Rockwell, previously the head of Vision Pro development.
Update, May 2nd: Anthropic has chosen not to comment.
