Apple explores third-party AI models for Siri as delays and internal shakeups disrupt in-house development
Apple Inc. is reportedly considering a major strategic shift by potentially integrating artificial intelligence (AI) models from OpenAI or Anthropic into its iconic voice assistant Siri, according to a report from Bloomberg News on Monday.
This would mark a significant reversal for the tech giant, which has traditionally relied on its proprietary technology. Apple is said to be testing external large language models (LLMs) on its cloud infrastructure, as it re-evaluates its approach to conversational AI.
Apple in Talks with OpenAI and Anthropic for Siri Overhaul
According to Bloomberg, Apple has held early-stage discussions with both OpenAI and Anthropic to explore embedding their LLMs into a next-generation Siri experience. These models would be trained to operate on Apple’s private cloud infrastructure to meet privacy and performance standards.
While no final decision has been made, the move signals Apple’s willingness to open up Siri to outside AI innovation, amid growing pressure from rivals like Google, Amazon, and Meta, who have all accelerated AI integration into their platforms.
Siri AI Improvements Delayed Until 2026
Apple had previously confirmed that major AI upgrades to Siri would be delayed until 2026, without offering a specific explanation. Bloomberg had earlier reported internal turmoil, including:
- A loss of confidence in AI chief John Giannandrea by CEO Tim Cook
- A resulting executive shake-up, with Mike Rockwell taking over Siri development
The delay highlights Apple’s lagging position in the AI race, especially as competitors make aggressive moves into generative AI and conversational interfaces.
Apple’s AI Strategy at WWDC: Incremental, Not Disruptive
At its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) earlier this month, Apple showcased several AI-powered features, including real-time translation during calls and AI-enhanced productivity tools. However, the company avoided announcing any sweeping AI ambitions, focusing instead on user-centric enhancements.
Apple’s software head Craig Federighi said that the company is now opening its foundational AI model to third-party developers and integrating both Apple’s own and OpenAI’s code completion tools into Xcode, its flagship software development environment.
Apple Stock Rises on AI Partnership Buzz
Following the Bloomberg report, Apple shares rose 2% by the market close on Monday, reflecting investor optimism around the company’s evolving AI roadmap and openness to strategic partnerships.
Key Takeaways:
- Apple is exploring AI partnerships with OpenAI and Anthropic to power a smarter Siri.
- The company is testing third-party LLMs on its cloud infrastructure.
- Siri’s AI revamp is delayed until 2026, following internal restructuring.
- Apple has not made a final decision but is open to using external models.
- WWDC 2025 showcased incremental AI features, not a major AI platform launch.
