AI Overhaul and iPhone 17 Rumors: Apple January 2025 Highlights

A leaked internal memo from Apple’s AI head, John Giannandrea, revealed significant changes within the AI division. Kim Vorrath, an Apple veteran, has been assigned a key role to overhaul Siri and other AI models.

The two main priorities for 2025 are:

• Rebuilding Siri’s core technology
• Improving existing AI models

While this move is encouraging, it also reflects previous mismanagement within the AI team. Apple’s approach remains focused on iteration, but it’s expected they may have more ambitious AI plans not fully disclosed.

iPhone 17 Pro Max Dynamic Island Update

Reports about the iPhone 17 Pro Max initially suggested that it would feature a significantly smaller Dynamic Island.

However, industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has refuted this, stating that the size will likely remain the same for the 2025 iPhone series.

While there’s room for minor tweaks, the design may not change drastically. For those preferring smaller models, this could be a relief.

iPhone SE 4 Notch vs Dynamic Island Debate

There’s ongoing confusion regarding the iPhone SE 4 design, with conflicting reports on whether it will feature a notch or Dynamic Island.

Display analyst Ross Young recently confirmed that the SE 4 will feature a notch, similar to the iPhone 14. This is likely a cost-saving measure for Apple’s budget model, leaving the Dynamic Island for higher-end models.