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Apple urged to accelerate AI push to avoid BlackBerry moment

Analyst Dan Ives warns Apple must move boldly into AI or risk missing the next tech wave.

August 8, 2025 at 05:26 PM
blur Apple's 'BlackBerry Moment'

Analyst warns Apple must embrace generative AI to avoid missing the next tech wave.

Apple Faces a BlackBerry Moment in AI Race

Apple now faces pressure to prove it can lead in artificial intelligence, not just host a vast device network. Wedbush analyst Dan Ives warns that without bold AI moves, Apple could repeat BlackBerry’s fall in the smartphone era, even with hundreds of millions of iOS users. The note highlights Apple’s enormous platform reach, with 2.4 billion iOS devices and 1.5 billion iPhones in circulation, but warns reach alone won’t sustain leadership.

Ives outlines three strategic moves to avoid a BlackBerry moment: acquire Perplexity to strengthen AI-powered search and Siri, recruit top AI talent from outside Apple, and fully embrace Google’s Gemini to deepen AI integration within the iPhone ecosystem. He notes that OpenAI is not a viable long-term partner and cautions time is running out for Apple to place its bets. A Perplexity spokesperson said there have been no M&A discussions. Apple did not respond to requests for comment.

Key Takeaways

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Apple is urged to accelerate its AI strategy to protect leadership in tech.
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A Perplexity acquisition could redefine Siri and search within the iPhone ecosystem.
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Bringing in outside AI talent may refresh Apple’s product cadence and vision.
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Integrating Google Gemini is viewed as essential, despite regulatory concerns.
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OpenAI is seen as a less viable long-term partner for Apple’s AI aims.
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The market will judge Apple on AI monetization as much as device features.
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Investors will scrutinize whether bold AI bets justify short-term volatility.

"We are unaware of any M&A discussions that involve Perplexity."

Startup spokesperson denying talks related to Perplexity.

"Apple must lead the AI race or risk becoming the next BlackBerry."

Ives’ warning about the need for bold AI moves.

"Google Gemini needs to be fully integrated into iPhone."

Ives’ recommendation for deep Gemini integration.

"The stakes are high for users who trust Apple to stay ahead in AI features."

Editorial perspective on user impact.

The piece frames Apple’s challenge as a test of strategic clarity versus defensive posture. A true pivot to AI could unlock new monetization paths and keep Apple at the core of everyday tech, but it requires more than slogans and incremental updates. Outside leadership and a willingness to risk current cash-generating inertia would signal a commitment to long-term value over short-term comfort. Regulatory headwinds and competition from OpenAI, Microsoft, Google, and others add complexity, making speed and coordination crucial.

In the bigger picture, Apple’s AI choices will shape its relationship with developers, advertisers, and device users. If Apple leans too heavily on a single partner or a single tactic, it could lose the flexibility that has defined its ecosystem. The question is not whether Apple can innovate, but whether it will choose the riskier, potentially higher-reward path that true AI leadership demands.

Highlights

  • Stop watching the AI parade from the park bench.
  • Bold bets beat broad consensus when history is at stake.
  • Perplexity could anchor Siri’s comeback.
  • Gemini within iPhone could redefine user experience.

AI pivot could trigger investor backlash and regulatory scrutiny

The proposed AI pivot involves significant investment, potential leadership changes, and large acquisitions. These factors carry financial risk, potential backlash from shareholders, and regulatory scrutiny as AI features scale across devices.

The coming months will reveal if Apple chooses a bold AI path or risks being left behind.

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