Apple is reportedly preparing to introduce a significant change to its artificial intelligence strategy with the upcoming release of iOS 27. According to a new report from Bloomberg, the company plans to allow users to select third-party AI models to power its Apple Intelligence features.

The development comes as Apple intensifies its efforts to compete in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The report, published this week, indicates that the change could arrive as early as next year with the major iOS 27 update.

Background on Apple Intelligence

Apple Intelligence is the company’s suite of AI-powered tools integrated into its operating systems. Currently, the system relies on Apple’s own proprietary AI models for tasks such as text generation, image analysis, and contextual suggestions.

The move to support third-party models would mark a departure from Apple’s traditionally closed ecosystem approach. It would potentially allow users to choose models from companies such as Google, OpenAI, or Anthropic, among others.

Report Details and Timing

The Bloomberg report, which cited people familiar with the matter, stated that Apple is still in the early stages of developing this capability. The feature is not expected to be ready for the next major iOS update, which would be iOS 26.5, but rather for a later version.

This week, Mashable previewed the new features coming to iOS 26.5, which include updates to messaging, health monitoring, and system performance, but no mention of third-party AI integration.

Apple has not officially confirmed the report. The company typically does not comment on future product plans or rumors.

Implications for Users and Developers

If implemented, the ability to swap AI models across Apple Intelligence could give users greater control over their digital experience. Different models excel at different tasks, such as creative writing, code generation, or data analysis. Users could potentially select the model best suited for their specific needs.

For developers, the change could create new opportunities to build applications that integrate with Apple’s AI framework using external models. It may also increase competition among AI providers, who would vie for integration with Apple’s large user base.

However, the report did not specify how Apple would handle privacy and security concerns. Apple has long emphasized its commitment to on-device processing and data protection. Integrating third-party models could raise questions about how user data is handled when routed through external AI systems.

Industry Context

Apple’s potential shift follows similar moves by other technology companies. Google has integrated its Gemini AI assistant into its Pixel devices and services. Samsung has partnered with Google to bring AI features to its Galaxy smartphones. Microsoft has embedded AI capabilities into its operating systems and productivity tools through partnerships with OpenAI.

Apple has also been expanding its internal AI research. Earlier this year, the company acquired several AI startups and hired prominent researchers to bolster its machine learning capabilities. The reported plan to support third-party models suggests a hybrid approach, combining Apple’s own technology with external innovations.

The broader AI industry has seen rapid advancement over the past year, with major players releasing increasingly powerful models. Apple’s entry into third-party model support could reshape how AI is delivered on mobile devices, a market with billions of users.

Analysts have noted that Apple faces pressure to demonstrate leadership in AI, even as it prioritizes user privacy and device security. The iOS 27 change could be a strategic move to offer competitive AI features without compromising on those values.

As of now, no official timeline has been provided. The report suggests the feature is still being developed and may be subject to change before final implementation.

Apple is expected to preview iOS 27 during its Worldwide Developers Conference next year, with a public release likely in the fall. Further details about the third-party AI model integration may emerge at that time.

Source: GeekWire