AI not just from OpenAI: Third iOS 26.1 beta points in this direction
Soon not just ChatGPT: Apple also wants to allow Google Gemini and possibly Anthropic Claude in iOS. There are now code details on this.
Various AI apps on the iPhone: System-level integration is imminent.
(Image: Tada Images/Shutterstock)
In the third beta version of iOS 26.1, which was released to the public last week, there are indications of changes in the support for artificial intelligence in Apple's iPhone operating system. Code leaks suggest that in the future, not only ChatGPT can serve as an alternative to Apple's own Apple Intelligence models, but third-party AI technology. However, it is still unclear who these will come from.
“In connection with a third party”
Previously, there was information that at least Google with Gemini and Claude from Anthropic were among the shortlisted candidates. However, direct integration is not expected until the coming months; iOS 26.1, which is expected this month, is likely only to lay the groundwork here. Apple itself has always emphasized that it is open to third-party models—possibly also to counteract regulatory intervention or even antitrust proceedings.
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The beta information comes from code leak expert Aaron Perris. He likes to compare known strings with those of the previous version. While iOS 26.0(.1) still contains the sentence that problems related to OpenAI's ChatGPT can be reported to Apple (“Reporting a Concern Related to ChatGPT”), it now says “in connection with a third party” (“Reporting a Concern Related to a Third Party”). This “third party” could then be Google or Anthropic, should the AI systems be released for iOS.
Implementation perhaps with iOS 26.2?
Observers estimate that more AI systems will be implemented at the earliest from iOS 26.2, which is expected to be released in early December. However, it is also conceivable that Apple will wait until the new, context-sensitive Siri is finally ready. This is expected with iOS 26.4 in the spring (March or April), but there are apparently internal concerns about it.
Meanwhile, Apple's AI department remains in chaos: well-known researchers or managers are repeatedly leaving Apple Intelligence, most recently the recently appointed head of the planned new AI search engine. The unrest is likely to subside only when the company launches its own well-functioning AI products; whether this is even possible with the current status remains to be seen. This is another reason why Apple is relying on third parties.
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