Apple is advancing its AI strategy at the operating system level, planning to introduce a multi-model selection mechanism in iOS 27, allowing users to call different large language models on-device as needed to support system-level features. This internal project, codenamed "Extensions," is expected to cover iPadOS 27 and macOS 27 simultaneously, marking Apple's shift from a single AI provider to a platform-based model scheduling and distribution architecture.

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According to disclosed information, users will be able to independently choose generative AI models integrated within installed apps in Apple Intelligence features such as Siri, writing tools, and image generation, achieving a plugin-like calling method. Current test versions show that Google and Anthropic's models are in the adaptation testing phase, while ChatGPT, having an existing user base in the ecosystem, is still expected to remain one of the optional options.

This strategy means that Apple is no longer limited to its own model capabilities but is trying to build a unified entry point for multiple models, abstracting AI capabilities into system-level resources that can be dynamically called by users or applications according to scenarios, thus enhancing flexibility and ecosystem compatibility. This approach differs from the current mainstream vendors' strategy of strengthening their own model capabilities, and is closer to the design concept of "operating system as the AI scheduling layer."

At the company level, with Tim Cook about to step down, John Ternus is seen as the person who will lead the future AI strategy direction. The outside world generally believes that Apple has been relatively conservative in the release rhythm of generative AI services, but its core advantage still lies in terminal hardware and system integration capabilities.

Overall, if the multi-model mechanism in iOS 27 is implemented, it will drive AI to evolve from a "single assistant" to a "multi-model collaborative platform," making devices like iPhones the distribution and scheduling center of AI capabilities, and also provide new system-level access points for third-party models, reshaping the AI competition landscape in the mobile ecosystem.