Apple Watch beta tests AI features for conversation rewind and recap

Apple has started beta testing new AI features called Audio Intelligence on the Apple Watch Series 12, according to TechCrunch. These features are part of the iOS 27.3 update and currently available to developers.

The Audio Intelligence technology includes four opt-in AI functions that assist users in detecting important sounds, recognizing songs, catching up on conversations, and taking notes. For example, the sound recognition feature helps deaf and hard-of-hearing users identify alarms, sirens, or doorbells from their watch.

One notable feature, Live Rewind, allows users to review the last 15 seconds of a conversation by double-pressing the watch’s digital crown. The snippet appears as text on the watch face and can be saved for later in the Siri app or dismissed permanently.

Apple has designed these conversation-listening features with privacy in mind, aiming to balance usefulness with respect for those around the user. This approach comes amid concerns raised by other AI wearables that record conversations without clear consent.

The beta rollout follows Apple’s announcement of these features at their Surprise and Shine event in September and marks a step toward integrating AI more deeply into wearable technology.