Apple earned $900 million from AI apps in 2025

Apple profited significantly from the boom in generative AI in 2025, despite not having its own leading AI product. A report shows that the company generates substantial revenue primarily through the App Store, thus playing a central role in the AI ecosystem.

Generative AI apps have quickly become a major revenue driver. Apple acts not as a developer, but as a platform operator. This role ensures stable revenue, as all transactions are processed through the App Store.

Significantly increasing revenues

Between January and August 2025, Apple's revenue from generative AI apps rose from approximately $35 million to $101 million per month. It then declined slightly, primarily due to falling ChatGPT downloads (via WSJ).

Overall, it is estimated that Apple earned around 900 million US dollars in App Store fees from AI apps in 2025.

ChatGPT as the main driver

According to the report, ChatGPT accounts for almost 75 percent of commission revenue. Grok follows with about 5 percent. Apple's revenue is therefore heavily dependent on a few large apps.

Platform instead of proprietary AI

Apple is profiting from the AI boom without operating a leading model itself. While companies like OpenAI or Google are investing billions in AI infrastructure, Apple is pursuing a different strategy.

The focus is on on-device AI, where data is processed directly on the iPhone. This is based on proprietary chips and locally stored user data.

Strong market position through devices

iPhones remain one of the most important gateways to AI applications. This ensures that Apple remains a key player, regardless of who develops the actual AI models.

Cooperation with Google

Apple plans to integrate Google's Gemini AI model into a revamped version of Siri. Reports indicate the deal could be worth around $1 billion per year. Ironically, part of this sum could be indirectly financed by revenue from competing AI apps in the App Store.

Siri's weaknesses

Despite the revenue, Siri is still considered relatively weak compared to modern AI chatbots. Apple clearly has some catching up to do here.

$900 million through AI: Apple's platform is paying off

Apple generated approximately $900 million in revenue from generative AI apps in 2025, leveraging its platform position effectively. At the same time, it's clear that its own AI technologies still have room for improvement. The combination of App Store revenue, device base, and partnerships remains crucial for future development. (Image: Apple)