Apple products are set to integrate with OpenAI’s ChatGPT in December with the rollout of iOS 18.2, enhancing Siri and other features with smarter AI. iOS 18.2 beta testers recently got a preview of the potential benefits of the Apple-OpenAI partnership.
Within the Settings app, Apple will offer an option to upgrade to ChatGPT Plus, as revealed in the iOS 18.2 beta update reported by 9to5Mac. This subscription plan from OpenAI costs $20 a month and provides users with access to the latest models and premium features not available in the free version of ChatGPT.
One major question surrounding this collaboration is how Apple and OpenAI plan to monetize it. While Apple is not reportedly paying OpenAI for the integration in cash, the exposure gained could be valuable. However, the success of this partnership ultimately depends on user adoption of ChatGPT Plus.
It remains unclear if Apple will receive a portion of the revenue generated from ChatGPT Plus signups through the Settings app. Despite Apple’s decision to include AI models from other developers in the future, such as Google’s Gemini, the integration with ChatGPT marks a significant step in Apple’s AI advancements.
In the midst of this integration, OpenAI is experiencing rapid changes, including fundraising and executive departures. Apple’s involvement in OpenAI’s fundraising efforts was rumored until the departure of OpenAI’s CTO, leading to Apple’s withdrawal from the latest funding round.
Overall, the Apple-OpenAI partnership presents a unique opportunity for both companies to advance their AI capabilities, despite the uncertainties surrounding the deal.
