Apple to let users choose third-party AI models in iOS 27

Apple plans to allow users to choose from a variety of third-party large language models to power functions within its operating system. According to a report from Bloomberg, the company plans to give users their pick of several external models capable of running tasks directly on their devices. According to an internal software message reportedly shown in test versions of the software, the feature, internally dubbed “Extensions,” will let users “access generative AI capabilities from installed apps on demand, through Apple Intelligence features such as Siri, Writing Tools, Image Playground and more”.

The new capability is reportedly planned for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27, which are scheduled for release later this year. Apple is currently testing models from Google and Anthropic to enable these on-demand generative AI capabilities. While ChatGPT is the model currently available to users, its future status under this new system is less clear, though the implication is that it will remain an option alongside the newly tested models. This testing phase highlights a clear distinction between Apple’s internal software trials and the final user-facing feature, which aims to offer a broader selection of artificial intelligence providers.

This strategic shift comes as Apple navigates a leadership transition. As outgoing CEO Tim Cook prepares to step down, incoming top executive John Ternus is tasked with charting the future of the company, including its AI strategy. Apple is widely perceived to be behind on AI compared to its peers, as it has not launched as many new AI services as some of its competitors. However, the company’s strategy appears less focused on spending heavily to build out its own AI infrastructure and more on transforming its existing hardware footprint into an AI-centric experience for its users.

Why it matters

Apple is pivoting its AI strategy from building infrastructure to turning existing hardware into an AI-centric experience, a critical move as the company navigates a leadership transition.