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May 5, 2026 • Lucas Ropek

Apple to Let Users Choose AI Models in iOS 27

Apple to Let Users Choose AI Models in iOS 27 Apple to Let Users Choose AI Models in iOS 27 Apple to Let Users Choose AI Models in iOS 27

Apple Plans to Make iOS 27 a Choose Your Own Adventure of AI Models

With Apple's latest operating system updates, users will reportedly have their pick of which third-party AI models they want to use for a host of tasks.

Key Details

  • iOS 27 Launch: When iOS 27 is released later this year, iPhone users will reportedly have extensive choice when it comes to which AI models they want to use on-device.

  • "Extensions" Feature: Apple plans to give users their pick of a number of third-party large language models that will be capable of powering various functions within the iPhone's operating system. The new feature, dubbed "Extensions" internally, will allow users to "access generative AI capabilities from installed apps on demand, through Apple Intelligence features such as Siri, Writing Tools, Image Playground and more," according to test versions of the software.

  • Platform Availability: The new capability will also be available for iPadOS 27 and macOS 27.

  • Current Testing: Models from Google and Anthropic are being tested now. The status of ChatGPT is less clear, though since it is currently the model available to users, one implication is that it will remain a choice.

Leadership & Strategy Context

  • Tim Cook Stepping Down: Long-serving CEO Tim Cook is soon stepping down.

  • New Leadership: Apple's incoming top executive, John Ternus, is tasked with charting the future of the company — including its AI strategy.

  • AI Strategy: Apple is widely perceived to be "behind" on AI, as it is not launching as many new AI services as some of its peers. However, Apple's plan is less about spending money building out AI infrastructure and services than it is about turning its already existing hardware into an AI-centric experience for users.

  • Revenue: Apple is still bringing in a generous amount of AI-based revenue.

Source

According to a new report from Bloomberg, the information comes from test versions of the software.