Apple is reportedly planning to let users swap in their preferred AI chatbot to power Siri. The Verge AI reports that iOS 27 will introduce a system called “Extensions,” allowing third-party chatbots like Google’s Gemini and Anthropic’s Claude to fetch replies on Siri’s behalf, much like the existing ChatGPT integration.
This is a meaningful shift for Apple. Until now, OpenAI had exclusive chatbot privileges inside Siri. Opening that up to competitors turns Siri into something closer to a platform than a single-vendor experience.
📱 What we know so far
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the key details look like this:
- Third-party chatbot support: AI assistants downloaded from the App Store will be able to plug directly into Siri
- User control: you’ll be able to enable or disable specific chatbots on iPhone, iPad, and Mac
- Standalone Siri app: Apple is reportedly building a separate app for its AI-upgraded Siri, designed to take actions across apps on your behalf
- Expected reveal: Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference kicks off June 8th, where the company typically announces new OS versions
🤝 The Google connection
This isn’t happening in a vacuum. Apple revealed back in January that it’s working with Google to power its overhauled Siri, following several setbacks with its in-house AI efforts. The Information reported this week that the deal goes deeper than just integration: Apple will reportedly use Gemini to train smaller AI models as well.
That’s a significant concession from a company that historically prefers to build everything in-house. It suggests Apple’s internal AI capabilities still aren’t where they need to be, and partnering with multiple providers is the pragmatic path forward.
🔍 Why this matters
The “Extensions” approach is classic Apple: let others compete while Apple controls the platform layer. Instead of betting on one AI provider, Apple is positioning Siri as a switchboard. Users pick their preferred brain, and Siri handles the interface.
This creates real competitive pressure among AI companies. Getting a slot in Siri means access to over a billion Apple devices. Expect Anthropic, Google, and others to optimize aggressively for this integration.
It also raises interesting questions about data handling. Each chatbot has different privacy policies, and Apple has built its brand on privacy. How Apple manages data flow between Siri and third-party models will be worth watching closely.
For users, the practical upside is simple: if you prefer Claude’s writing or Gemini’s search capabilities over ChatGPT, you won’t have to abandon Siri to use them.
More details should surface at WWDC in June. For the full breakdown, check out the original report from The Verge AI.