In March of this year, Apple (AAPL) took a step with Siri by allowing users to replace ChatGPT with other external chatbots as the default option. According to sources familiar with the matter, Apple plans to enable users to independently choose models from multiple external AI service providers for tasks such as text and image generation and editing in the iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 systems set to be released this fall. This move marks Apple’s continued strategy of transforming its devices into comprehensive AI platforms.
Apple’s “Apple Intelligence” platform, launched in 2024, currently offers ChatGPT as the only third-party option for features such as Siri, writing tools, and Image Playground. Rather than developing the most cutting-edge AI software on its own, Apple’s strategy is to provide users with easy access to multiple AI options, thereby gaining a competitive edge.
According to sources, the iOS update will allow users to choose from AI model providers that have added support and opted in via the App Store application. As of now, Apple has internally tested integration with at least two companies: Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company, and Anthropic PBC. Apple has previously partnered with Google to improve the underlying models supporting Siri, and with Anthropic to support internal AI infrastructure and product development. An Apple spokesperson based in Cupertino, California, declined to comment.
This shift will offer users greater flexibility and benefit partners such as Google and Anthropic, while representing a potential setback for OpenAI. The integration of ChatGPT saw lower-than-expected usage when launched in 2024. Tensions between the two companies are also deepening in the hardware space—OpenAI is actively poaching engineers from Apple to build its own AI devices. Another enhancement will allow users to choose different voices for different Siri conversations. Additionally, Apple will introduce an upgraded version of Siri, which includes a standalone Siri app, a new Siri mode in the camera app, new AI editing tools for photos, and the ability to create custom credentials within the Wallet app.
