1-800-APL-CARE Now Connects You With AI Assistant Instead of Human

If you dial Apple Support’s phone number 1-800-APL-CARE from the U.S. or Canada, there is a good chance that an AI-powered support assistant will now answer.

While many of Apple’s phone systems already had a basic automated operator, the Apple Support phone line is now using a voice powered by generative AI. The assistant can answer questions and troubleshoot issues with your Apple products, with it able to provide detailed step-by-step instructions. The assistant can still transfer you to a human advisor if it cannot answer a specific question, or if you ask to speak to a real person.

An anonymous tipster claimed that Apple has partnered with Sierra AI on the virtual assistant, but we have not independently confirmed this information.

A concern is that Apple’s increasing use of AI for customer service may result in a reduction in human advisors, through fewer job listings and/or layoffs.

It appears that the AI assistant for Apple Support phone calls went live earlier this year. Apple has also been testing a new AI-powered chatbot in its Apple Support app, through a new « Ask » tab that has rolled out to a limited number of users.

This article, "1-800-APL-CARE Now Connects You With AI Assistant Instead of Human" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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