On 2026-09-10, Apple released technical documentation concerning the privacy protections of "Audio Intelligence," a new feature to be included in Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4. Audio Intelligence is a function that allows AI to understand ambient sounds via the Apple Watch, with intended applications such as detecting sirens or crying babies, as well as accessibility enhancements.

The core of its privacy protection is a system that avoids creating accessible audio recording files. Raw audio is temporarily stored on the "Secure Exclave," a security coprocessor embedded within the Apple Watch's S11 chip. According to Apple, the Secure Exclave is a compartment hardware-isolated from other parts of the system; therefore, watchOS, iOS, apps, users, and even Apple itself cannot access the data within this compartment.

During the data processing stage, data temporarily stored in the Secure Exclave is transferred to the iPhone in an encrypted state, where transcription takes place. This text data is then sent to Private Cloud Compute, Apple's AI processing server, where tasks such as information summarization are performed. Apple also explained that users can control the activation and timing of these features.

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