Apple is preparing to expand its artificial intelligence strategy by allowing users to choose from multiple third-party AI models across its software ecosystem, according to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The move is aimed at turning Apple devices into a more comprehensive and flexible AI platform.
Users will be able to select external AI models for tasks such as generating and editing text and images. These models will work across Apple Intelligence features, extending functionality beyond Apple’s in-house systems.
iOS 27 “Extensions” system and AI integration
Apple is introducing a new framework called “Extensions” in iOS 27, designed to integrate generative AI capabilities from installed apps directly into system features.
In test versions, Apple explains that Extensions:
Allow you to access generative AI capabilities from installed apps on demand, through Apple Intelligence features such as Siri, Writing Tools, Image Playground and more.
This system enables AI models that offer support through their App Store apps to plug into Apple Intelligence. For example, companies like Google (Gemini) and Anthropic (Claude) could integrate their models, allowing users to select them for features such as:
- Siri responses
- Writing Tools for text generation and editing
- Image Playground for image creation
The update builds on Apple’s existing AI partnerships, including its agreement with Google to use Gemini for certain native Siri and Apple Intelligence features.
Apple also introduced ChatGPT integration with iOS 18, where it is used as a fallback for world knowledge queries in Siri and is accessible in features like Image Playground. With iOS 27, this approach expands into a broader system where users can actively choose between multiple AI models.
Earlier reporting indicated that Extensions would work with Siri, but the latest details show that the system will extend across wider Apple Intelligence features beyond the voice assistant.
AI voice customization across models
Apple is also developing a feature that allows different voices depending on the AI model handling a request.
- Queries handled by Apple’s own AI system may use one Siri voice
- Responses from third-party AI models, such as Claude, may use a different voice
This distinction is intended to help users identify which AI system is generating a response.
Availability
Apple is expected to introduce iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 at WWDC, which begins on June 8. The update is expected to roll out later this fall.