Apple’s AI-powered tools, such as Apple Intelligence, are often touted as game-changers for productivity. However, when it comes down to reality, these tools can feel like bolt-ons rather than seamlessly integrated solutions.
Spike, a popular email client, has taken a different approach with its AI Feed feature. Instead of launching a separate assistant or chatbot, Spike has integrated AI into the most-used part of your workday: your email inbox. This approach allows for more natural and intuitive use, making it easier to focus on what’s truly important.
The AI Feed is particularly useful for quickly powering up your inbox after a long period of absence. It summarizes messages and helps you take action without having to open each individual email. This feature saves time and reduces clutter, allowing you to get back to work more efficiently.
In contrast, Apple Intelligence feels like an add-on that’s designed to help with writing rather than integrating into workflows. Users need to look at their calendar, reminders, and inbox to structure their day, rather than having the AI provide context and suggestions.
To take its AI-powered tools to the next level, Apple should aim for integration with other essential apps and services. For example, it could connect the AI Feed to calendars, docs, or team chat to create a control center for your day.
With Spike’s AI Feed as a model, we can see that smarter tools that live where people already work are more effective in improving productivity than bolt-on functionality. As Apple continues to develop its own AI-powered solutions, it would be wise to follow this approach and prioritize integration over standalone features.
Source: https://9to5mac.com/2025/05/24/spike-ai-feed-is-a-solid-example-of-workplace-ai-done-right