Apple is reportedly working on an artificial intelligence (AI) agent that can dispense health advice, according to Bloomberg News. This project, dubbed “Project Mulberry,” is Apple’s latest and perhaps strongest push into the health field. The idea is to have the Health app collect data from devices, with the AI coach then offering users tailored recommendations on improving their health based on that data. This development could revolutionize personal health management by providing users with personalized health advice directly on their Apple devices.
Building on Previous Efforts
“Project Mulberry” is an evolution of an earlier effort called “Project Quartz,” which aimed to deploy AI to help users exercise, develop healthier eating and sleeping habits. The project has now ramped up development, with a possible release as soon as Apple releases its iOS 19.4 operating system update, expected in spring or summer of 2025. By leveraging AI, Apple aims to provide users with more comprehensive and personalized health guidance, making it easier for them to manage their well-being.
Enhancing the Health App
The revamped Health app will have a major focus on food tracking, an area that Apple has mostly shied away from in the past. This move could position Apple as a major player in the health and wellness app market, going head-to-head with companies like MyFitnessPal and Noom. By integrating food tracking into the Health app, Apple aims to provide users with a more holistic view of their health, combining data from various sources to offer comprehensive recommendations.
Leveraging Expert Knowledge
Apple is also training an AI agent using data from doctors it has on staff, but is also looking to recruit outside doctors — such as experts in sleep, nutrition, physical therapy, mental health, and cardiology — to create video explainers about different health conditions. This approach ensures that the AI agent’s advice is based on expert knowledge and best practices, providing users with reliable and accurate health information.
Overcoming Challenges
Apple’s health efforts have faced challenges in the past. For example, the company decided to remove a blood oxygen feature from its smartwatch following a yearslong patent dispute with medical technology firm Masimo. However, with “Project Mulberry,” Apple seems determined to overcome these obstacles and make significant strides in the health tech space. By focusing on AI and personalized health recommendations, Apple aims to provide users with a seamless and effective health management experience.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook
In other news from the intersection of AI and healthcare, a new PYMNTS Intelligence report titled “Healthcare Firms Going Long on GenAI Investment” highlights the growing adoption of generative AI (GenAI) in the healthcare industry. The report, based on surveys of C-suite executives at healthcare firms with at least $1 billion in yearly revenue, indicates a strong conviction in the technology’s potential, with 9 in 10 executives anticipating a positive return on their GenAI investments. This trend suggests that healthcare companies are increasingly recognizing the value of AI in improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
Conclusion
Apple’s development of an AI agent for health advice is a significant step forward in the company’s health tech initiatives. By leveraging AI and expert knowledge, Apple aims to provide users with personalized health recommendations, enhancing their overall well-being. As the healthcare industry continues to embrace AI, Apple’s efforts in this area could set a new standard for personal health management, making it easier for users to take control of their health.
