Apple is gearing up to let third-party developers use its AI models to build new apps and features in a move that could make iPhones and Macs even more appealing.
The company is working on a software development kit (SDK) that will let developers use its smaller, on-device AI models rather than the more advanced cloud-based ones, Bloomberg reported. This approach is similar to what Google is doing with its Gemini Nano AI for Android.
Apple hopes to spark a wave of fresh, smart apps that fully leverage its systems by giving developers access to its AI technology, Apple Intelligence. This tech powers features like notification summaries, text editing, and basic image creation.
Currently, developers can only integrate limited Apple Intelligence features, including AI Writing Tools and the Image Playground generator, but they haven’t been able to use Apple’s core AI models (Apple Foundation Models) to build their AI-powered functions.
Apple has been trailing AI competitors
Apple has been seen as playing catch-up in the AI race, with rivals like Samsung and Google already packing their devices with advanced AI features. Earlier this year, Apple paused its AI news summary feature after errors angered media outlets. Its Genmoji tool, which creates custom emojis, has also been hit or miss, sometimes producing odd results. And, then there have been the recent Siri delays.
By opening up its models, Apple could encourage developers to create apps that distinguish iPhones and Macs.
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Next month’s WWDC: What to expect
The opening of AI models is expected to be one of the main announcements at this year’s WWDC held June 9-13. But that’s not all.
Apple is planning a dramatic redesign of its iPhone, iPad, and Mac software under a project called “Solarium,” which will make the systems feel more unified and closer in look and feel to the visionOS used on its Vision Pro headset.
In addition, developers may receive new tools for building voice-powered features through Siri using App Intents, although that may not arrive until iOS 19, which is expected later this year and into 2026.
There are hints of other AI projects, including a battery-saving AI mode and an AI-powered Health app with a virtual wellness coach, though the latter isn’t expected until 2026.