During WWDC 2026, Apple did not highlight a major new Siri feature: the ability to work with multiple third-party AI models. However, evidence in the iOS 27 developer beta suggests Apple is preparing to open Siri and Apple Intelligence to external AI ecosystems, potentially transforming the assistant into a versatile gateway for AI services.
- iOS 27 beta contains backend controls for AI model selection within Siri.
- Apple discussions underway with OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google for integration.
- Feature unannounced at WWDC possibly due to regulatory and strategic complexities.
What happened
Apple showcased an enhanced Siri at WWDC 2026 but omitted mention of a key AI capability. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the iOS 27 developer beta includes hidden support to enable Siri to interact with multiple third-party AI models besides ChatGPT. This is supported by backend control features and an App Store section for compatible AI apps.
The iOS 27 beta reveals an AI chatbot selector allowing users to switch between Siri and ChatGPT, indicating that Apple is laying groundwork for broader AI interoperability. Discussions with major AI developers such as OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google have taken place, with developers needing to obtain special entitlements for their AI models to be supported.
Why it matters
Apple's historical approach has favored creating all AI technologies in-house, but generative AI is advancing too quickly for a single company to lead indefinitely. By building a framework that supports multiple AI models, Apple can offer users more choice and keep Siri relevant against competitors leveraging diverse AI capabilities.
The move could shift Siri from a standalone voice assistant to an intelligent gateway that dynamically routes queries to the best AI model available. This strategy also positions Apple to integrate advancements from various AI providers without being tied exclusively to one, potentially enhancing the user experience and expanding Siri's usefulness rapidly.
What to watch next
Keep an eye on future iOS 27 updates and beta releases for public activation of the multi-AI model feature. Apple’s regulatory considerations, especially in Europe, and discussions with AI companies might influence the timing and scope of this rollout.
Also watch for App Store announcements around AI app entitlements and integrations, which will demonstrate how third-party AI developers embed their models within Apple's system. The pace and extent of this openness could significantly impact the competitive landscape for AI-powered digital assistants.