Apple Shifts Focus from Cars to AI: What This Means for the Future of Self-Driving Tech

QUICK ZAPS

Apple is shifting its focus away from electric vehicles and toward artificial intelligence, according to a new report. For years, rumors swirled about Apple's plans to enter the car industry. It had recruited hundreds of engineers and experts from automakers. However, development of the so-called "Apple Car" faced numerous setbacks. 

Now it seems Apple has changed course. Sources familiar with the company's plans told Reuters that Apple is winding down the autonomous vehicle program known as "Project Titan." Over the past few years, Apple laid off 190 workers from the division and scaled back the team's goals. Rather than developing a whole new vehicle, Apple will focus on autonomous driving systems and related automotive technology. 

This strategic shift reflects Apple's strengths in areas like AI and hardware. While building a whole new car proved very challenging, integrating self-driving software and sensors into partner vehicles is a more realistic goal for the tech giant. Under the leadership of CEO Tim Cook, Apple appears to have acknowledged the difficulties of entering the capital-intensive auto industry and pivoted to play to its existing strengths in technology instead.