Apple has been rather reserved when it comes to artificial intelligence in recent years. While companies like Google, OpenAI, and Meta made their models publicly available, Apple worked behind the scenes on its own solutions. Now, there's a shift in strategy. With iOS 19, Apple wants to open up its AI approach and, for the first time, is making its own language models available to developers. The goal: better apps, more features, and clear added value for users.
With iOS 19, Apple is launching a new software development kit (SDK). This gives developers access to the AI models Apple uses in its system features. These include tools like notification summaries, writing functions, Genmoji, and Image Playground. The AI models available through the SDK correspond to the large language models Apple uses internally—although Apple is initially focusing on smaller models that run directly on the device, according to Bloomberg .
Apple prioritizes AI on the device
Unlike many other providers, Apple continues to prioritize keeping as much computing power as possible locally on the device. This also applies to AI functions. Instead of processing everything via servers, many of the models will run directly on the iPhone or iPad. This offers advantages in terms of data protection, responsiveness, and the availability of functions without an internet connection.
Developers can create their own AI functions
Until now, it was only possible to integrate existing Apple AI features into custom apps—for example, the system-based notification aggregation feature or typing aids. It was not possible to develop custom, new AI features based on Apple's technology. Those wanting to integrate AI had to rely on third-party providers such as OpenAI or Anthropic. Apple wants to change this with the new SDK. Developers will have more freedom in the future and be able to implement their own AI-based features based on Apple's framework.
Criticism of Apple has accelerated development
Apple has recently been criticized for delayed or incomplete delivery of announced AI features. In particular, the new version of Siri, which was supposed to be based on personalized AI, was announced with iOS 18 but wasn't ready for release. These features are now scheduled to be added with iOS 19. Other features, such as the writing tools and the Image Playground, have also failed to achieve the desired impact. Apple hopes that opening up AI models to developers will lead to more and better use cases that are also more attractive to users.
LLM-based Siri will come later
Apple is also working on its own large language models (LLMs), similar to ChatGPT or Claude. A new version of Siri based on these LLMs is in the works. It is intended to communicate more naturally, understand more complex queries, and better respond to users. However, a release is not expected until 2026 at the earliest—so likely not until iOS 20.
The announcement comes at WWDC 2025
Apple is expected to announce all details of its new AI strategy at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on Monday, June 9, 2025. The new SDK will be presented there, and developers will get their first glimpse into the concrete possibilities offered by Apple's AI models.
iOS 19 marks a turning point for Apple
With iOS 19, Apple is opening its AI infrastructure to the developer community for the first time. The initial focus is on smaller, more efficient models that run locally on the device. This is Apple's response to criticism of its previous development and creating new opportunities for innovative app features. At the same time, the company is working long-term on a completely new version of Siri that will compete with current AI chatbots. For users, this means more intelligence, more personalization, and, potentially, a significantly stronger AI experience within the Apple ecosystem. (Image: Shutterstock / Primakov)
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