iOS 19 might be adding several new third-party AI models

Apple’s big iOS 19 unveiling is a little over a month away, and according to a surprising source, it sounds like the update’s Apple Intelligence upgrades might include supporting multiple new third-party AI models.

Tim Cook reportedly confirmed plans for more AI models in iOS 19

Google CEO Sundar Pichai appeared in court today as part of the company’s antitrust trial.

Pichai said he is “hopeful” a deal will be struck to integrate Gemini with Apple Intelligence soon.

But per The Verge, Pichai also apparently leaked some iOS 19 news:

[Pichai] added that he was told by Cook that more third-party AI models would ship on Apple Intelligence later this year.

I’m not sure Cook will appreciate Pichai sharing details on Apple’s plans for iOS 19, but this is an exciting tidbit for users.

Cook’s reported confidence that Apple Intelligence will include more third-party AI models this year is significant.

It means there are other third-party AI deals in the works—or possibly already completed—beyond Apple and Google’s.

9to5Mac’s Take

From Apple’s standpoint, it makes a lot of sense to offer a wide variety of third-party AI options in iOS 19.

If the iPhone can serve as an AI aggregator for the best third-party tools in the market, Apple’s own AI struggles won’t be nearly as consequential for users.

I’m especially curious if Apple can find a way to enable multiple third-party AI models at once. That way, you can get the best intelligence from OpenAI, Google, etc. as suits each request.

Things could get a little messy that way, so iOS 19 might limit you to choosing one AI ‘extension’ at a time. But in any case, with WWDC right around the corner, we should know more in early June.

Are you excited for iOS 19 to possibly offer multiple new third-party AI models? Let us know in the comments.

Best iPhone accessories

• AirPods Pro 2 (now only $169, down from $249)
• MagSafe Car Mount for iPhone
• HomeKit smart plug 4-pack
• 10-year AirTag battery case 2-pack
• 100W USB-C power adapter for fast charging