Apple confirms AI support tool in new legal page
Apple’s new AI-powered Support Assistant hasn’t officially launched for everyone, but some users are able to test an early preview.
In July, we learned that there was a strong likelihood that Apple would soon launch a ChatGPT-style AI assistant for Apple Support. Now, it appears to be all but confirmed, thanks to a newly unearthed page titled “Support Assistant Terms of Use.”
The page, spotted by MacRumors, confirms that the seemingly yet-unreleased Apple Support feature uses generative models. It also says that the feature is for technical support only.
It also outlines the rules that users automatically opt into upon using the Support Assistant — chiefly, that you understand the risks associated with using generative AI.
“You understand and agree that generative models may occasionally generate incorrect, misleading, incomplete, offensive, or harmful outputs,” a paragraph in the Services subsection reads. “To the extent you choose to use Support Assistant, you do so at your own initiative and are responsible for compliance with any applicable laws.”
As previously mentioned — it appears that the Support Assistant has not launched yet. However, as the terms of use page was last updated on July 15, we anticipate its launch will be imminent.
August 5, 1:15 pm ET: Some users have reported spotting the new Support Assistant already within the Apple Support app. This feature is currently not available to all users.
To check if you have it, you’ll need to download the Apple Support app. If you’re one of the chosen few, there will be a dedicated “Chat” button added to the bottom.
Tapping the button will launch the Support Assistant and allow you to ask questions to the new generative AI assistant. It can currently tackle questions relating to Apple products and services, troubleshoot problems with devices, and answer questions about device features.
In the event that it cannot answer your question, you’ll have the option to escalate to a chat with Apple’s support staff.