Writing code, debugging, and testing interfaces often takes a lot of time. Apple aims to simplify this process. Together with the AI company Anthropic, Apple is developing a smart coding tool within Xcode. This new version of Xcode integrates Anthropic's Claude Sonnet model. Initially, the tool will be used only internally. It is still unclear whether it will be made publicly available.
Users can give commands to the tool through a chat interface. This includes testing user interfaces or assisting with troubleshooting. Apple has not provided an official comment. Anthropic is also refraining from making any statements.
Xcode: Possible Impact on Businesses and Developers
Large tech companies are increasingly using AI to make software development more efficient. According to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, 20 to 30 percent of the code in some projects is already AI-generated. OpenAI is also responding to this trend with a potential acquisition of Windsurf, an AI tool focused on coding. For Apple, this collaboration with Anthropic could help them catch up in the field of AI.
This is necessary, as Apple's AI projects are experiencing delays. For instance, the launch of an improved version of Siri, announced in June 2024, has taken longer than expected. Meanwhile, the responsibility for Siri has shifted to Mike Rockwell, who was previously in charge of Vision Pro.
Outlook and solutions in development
The new tool underscores Apple's commitment to practical AI solutions. Earlier, at WWDC 2024, Swift Assist was also announced, an AI tool for coding that has not yet been released.
For developers, this development offers promise: spending less time on repetitive tasks and more room for creative and complex programming work. For Apple, it is primarily a step towards a stronger AI positioning within software development.