Apple to join Google, Facebook, Microsoft and others in AI super-group

Will join Partnership on Artificial Intelligence to Benefit People and Society

Apple is set to join an artificial intelligence (AI) group formed of some of its core rivals such as Google, Facebook and Microsoft.

The group was formed last year and also counts Amazon and IBM among its members. At the time of the group's formation Apple was the most notable absentee from the list.

Now, though, according to a report on Bloomberg, the firm is set to join the group, officially called Partnership on Artificial Intelligence to Benefit People and Society,

Apple and the group have not officially commented on the claims but Bloomberg has sources that have confirmed the move.

The group claims on its front page that it has been setup to "study and formulate best practices on AI technologies, to advance the public's understanding of AI, and to serve as an open platform for discussion and engagement about AI and its influences on people and society."

While Apple did not join at launch, there were already moves being made to encourage the firm to join, with Microsoft's Eric Horvitz, one of the project's interim co-chairmen, saying it was hoped they would join

"I know they're enthusiastic about this effort, and I'd hope to see them join," he said.

That seems to now be the case it would certainly fit with Apple's growing efforts in this area. Over time the firm has been coy about its work in this area, although there have been signs its focus is increasing, such as its acquisition of AI startup Turi for $200m.

While Apple's joining is a notable move there are still some other firms left to join, such as Twitter and Intel.