What to know
- Apple is collaborating with AI startup Anthropic to build an AI coding assistant for Xcode using Claude Sonnet.
- The tool helps generate, edit, and test code, currently being tested internally.
- This replaces Apple's failed Swift Assist project abandoned due to code hallucinations.
- Public release depends on internal testing success.
Apple is working with Anthropic to integrate Claude Sonnet AI into Xcode, aiming to streamline coding workflows for developers. The tool assists with writing, editing, and testing code through a chat interface, currently available internally to Apple engineers.
This partnership marks a strategic shift for Apple, which previously relied on in-house tools like Swift Assist. The 2024 Swift Assist project was shelved after engineers reported issues with inaccurate code suggestions and development delays.
The Claude-powered version shows Apple's growing willingness to collaborate with external AI specialists. Anthropic's models are gaining traction among developers for their coding capabilities, particularly in handling Swift programming language used for Apple platforms.
Bloomberg reports the tool could eventually reach third-party developers if internal tests succeed. Apple hasn't confirmed public release plans yet, but the move aligns with its broader AI strategy that includes partnerships with OpenAI and Google.
For developers, this could mean faster app development cycles and reduced debugging time. The AI assistant can reportedly test user interfaces and help locate bugs, addressing key pain points in software creation.
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