Apple Intelligence price speculation might make you reconsider your monthly subscriptions

Apple’s latest venture into AI has sparked a flurry of speculation. Dubbed “Apple Intelligence,” this new offering has analysts buzzing about its potential cost to the average consumer. If their predictions hold true, you might want to take a closer look at your monthly budget.

According to a recent report by CNBC, industry experts are floating a possible price tag of up to $20 per month for Apple Intelligence’s more advanced features. This isn’t based on any official announcement or leak, but rather on educated guesses from those familiar with Apple’s pricing strategies.

To put this in perspective, let’s consider some other popular subscription services:

Streaming services:

• Netflix: $6.99 to $22.99 per month
• Spotify Premium: $10.99 per month
• Disney+: $7.99 per month

AI services:

• ChatGPT Plus: $20 per month
• Google Gemini Advanced: $19.99 per month
• Claude Pro: $20 per month

At $20, Apple Intelligence would align with the pricing of other premium AI services. However, there’s speculation that it might be included in the Apple One bundle, which currently costs $19.95 per month and includes services like Apple Music, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade.

Counterpoint Research partner, Neil Shah, told CNBC that the price could range between $10 and $20, potentially as part of the Apple One package. “Software and services makes it more lucrative for Apple to pass it on with the Apple One subscription model,” Shah explained to CNBC.

It’s worth noting that charging for AI features isn’t uncommon in the tech world. As we can see from the prices above, major players in the AI space are already offering subscription-based models for their advanced features.

Ben Wood, chief of research at CCS Insight, also shared his insights with the news outlet, stating, “Apple is one of the few connected devices companies that has successfully monetized the value-added services it offers.” He added that Apple might choose to charge for more advanced features within its Apple Intelligence offering.

For Apple, this move could serve a dual purpose. Not only would it offset the significant costs associated with AI development, but it could also further cement user loyalty. As Shah pointed out to CNBC, the more you use an AI system, the more personalized it becomes, potentially making it harder for users to switch to a different ecosystem.

While some basic Apple Intelligence features may remain free, it seems likely that the more advanced capabilities will come at a price. As we await official word from Apple, it might be a good time to review your current subscriptions and consider where Apple Intelligence might fit into your digital life – and your wallet.

Remember, nothing is set in stone yet. But if these predictions prove accurate, you might find yourself weighing the value of yet another AI subscription against the allure of Apple’s AI-powered future. With the AI subscription market already becoming crowded, Apple’s entry could shake things up – or it might just add another option to an already complex decision for all of us.