On July 1, 2025, reports surfaced that Apple may abandon in-house AI development for Siri, opting to outsource to Anthropic or OpenAI for its 2026 update. This shift, reported by Bloomberg, signals challenges in scaling Apple’s AI technology.
Apple initially announced advanced AI features for Siri at WWDC 2024, promising human-like responses and seamless integration of complex tasks. However, these features, absent from the iPhone 16 launch and delayed multiple times, are now targeted for 2026. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, citing insiders, reported that Apple is in talks with Anthropic and OpenAI to use their large language models (LLMs). The company has requested custom models trained for its cloud infrastructure, aiming to test compatibility and efficiency before selecting one.
🚨 LATEST: Apple considers switching Siri to external AI providers like Anthropic or OpenAI, per Bloomberg. pic.twitter.com/evTxo80QKx
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) July 1, 2025
Apple’s decision reflects struggles to scale its Apple Foundation Models, which power most of its app-based AI features. The delay in Siri’s upgrade, confirmed at WWDC 2025, suggests limitations in competing with global AI leaders. Outsourcing to established firms like Anthropic or OpenAI could accelerate Siri’s transformation, but it marks a departure from Apple’s tradition of proprietary technology development.
Partnering with Anthropic or OpenAI could enhance Siri’s capabilities, enabling more natural interactions and broader app integration. However, this move raises questions about Apple’s AI ambitions and its ability to maintain control over user experience. Users may benefit from faster, more advanced Siri updates, but relying on external models could raise concerns about data privacy and integration consistency.
Apple might ditch internal AI efforts for Siri revamp, use OpenAI or Anthropic instead https://t.co/3FEbQMy4TQ
— 9to5Mac (@9to5mac) June 30, 2025
Apple’s potential outsourcing of Siri’s AI highlights the competitive landscape of AI and the challenges tech giants face in scaling proprietary models. This shift could redefine Siri’s role in Apple’s ecosystem, impacting millions of users and the broader tech industry. It also underscores the growing influence of firms like Anthropic and OpenAI in shaping AI innovation.