Apple plans AI model selection feature for iPhone, Mac users

Apple is preparing to let users choose from third-party artificial intelligence models for features tied to text and image generation across its upcoming software releases.

According to recent reports, the feature is expected to arrive with iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 later this year. Citing people familiar with the matter, the report said Apple internally refers to the system as “Extensions,” a setup that would allow users to decide which AI services power Apple Intelligence functions through the Settings app.

Under the reported framework, AI developers would be able to support the feature by integrating compatibility into their App Store applications. Apple has already been testing connections with models from Google and Anthropic, the report added.

The move could give users more flexibility over how Apple Intelligence tools operate across iPhones, iPads, and Macs, while also helping Apple strengthen its position against rivals such as Microsoft and Google, both of which rolled out consumer AI products earlier and at a faster pace.

Google’s Gemini model is also expected to support Apple’s upgraded Siri assistant later this year as the company continues expanding its AI offerings.

Apple is likely to share additional details during its annual developer conference in June, where the company is expected to outline the next phase of its artificial intelligence strategy.

The reported expansion of Apple Intelligence comes at a sensitive time for the company’s AI push. Apple recently agreed to pay $250 million to settle claims from iPhone buyers who accused the company of overstating the capabilities of its artificial intelligence features.

According to court filings submitted Tuesday in California federal court, Apple denied wrongdoing but agreed to resolve the proposed class action lawsuit, which was first filed last year.

The lawsuit alleged that Apple misled consumers through advertising tied to Apple Intelligence, including promises related to upgraded Siri functionality and other AI-powered tools on the iPhone.