Apple CEO John Ternus addresses AI privacy and discloses equity holdings

Apple CEO John Ternus has addressed privacy concerns regarding AI-powered wearable technology, emphasizing the company’s commitment to user security and social comfort. In response to criticisms of AI glasses being used for intrusive monitoring, Ternus highlighted that new Apple Watch features, such as ‘Audio Intelligence,’ are designed to prioritize privacy.

The upcoming ‘Audio Intelligence’ features, including ‘Siri Recap’ and ‘Live Rewind,’ will process data primarily on-device. Apple stated that the device will not record or store raw audio, nor will it provide transcripts or identify speakers. To prevent misuse, the ‘Live Rewind’ function will include both sound and visual indicators to alert those nearby that the watch is active. These features are expected to debut in beta for Apple Watch Series 12 and Apple Watch Ultra 4 later this year.

In related corporate news, SEC filings disclosed following Ternus’s appointment as CEO reveal his initial equity holdings. According to Form 3 and Form 4 filings, Ternus holds 34,155 shares of Apple common stock and 306,231 restricted stock units (RSUs). His compensation includes performance-based RSUs tied to Apple’s total shareholder return relative to the S&P 500, with vesting periods extending through 2030.