Apple’s iOS 27, arriving this September, will introduce an AI Extensions system allowing iPhone users to select which artificial intelligence model powers their Apple Intelligence features for the first time.

Users can choose between Google Gemini as the default option, OpenAI’s ChatGPT, or Anthropic’s Claude. The system represents a major shift from Apple’s traditional approach of controlling the entire software experience.

Tim Cook announced the multi-AI strategy at WWDC 2026, signaling Apple’s willingness to let third-party AI models compete within its ecosystem. The move came alongside a $1 billion annual licensing deal with Google for Gemini access.

The implementation uses Apple’s Extensions framework, enabling developers and AI companies to integrate their models directly into iOS features. This distribution opportunity reaches over 2 billion active Apple devices worldwide.

Microsoft and other AI companies explored similar integration approaches, but Apple’s implementation first gives users genuine choice. The feature applies to writing, image generation, and general assistant tasks within iOS 27.

Apple Intelligence, the company’s broader AI initiative, had previously raised concerns about privacy and control. The Extensions system allows users to pick which company they trust with their data for each AI task.

iOS 27 beta launched in June with the Extensions system functional. Full release is scheduled for September 2026 alongside new iPhone hardware.