Concerns Rise Over AI Tone-Shifting Technology’s Impact on Communication

Linguists are raising concerns about the impact of AI tone-shifting technology on communication as Apple rolls out its new writing tools across UK devices, The Guardian revealed in an article yesterday.

These tools, the article argues, aim to help users adjust the tone of their texts and emails, making them sound friendlier or more professional. However, experts warn that such technology risks flattening the richness and nuance of human language.

Users in the US reported that AI-generated summaries can strip emotional context from messages, reducing personal exchanges to robotic statements. Language consultant Prof. Tony Thorne cautions that AI lacks the ability to capture individual writing styles and emotional nuances. Sociolinguist Prof. Rob Drummond adds that reliance on AI may create an inauthentic identity in communication.

Apple plans to refine its features based on user feedback, with the AI assistance available on select devices. Broader rollouts in Europe are expected in April 2025, as the debate over AI’s role in language continues.