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Apple Brings On-Device AI to Third-Party Apps With Foundation Models in iOS 26

Developers gain on-device access to a 3‑billion‑parameter model integrated with Swift for private, offline features at no inference cost.

Overview

  • The framework is now available on iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26 for Apple Intelligence‑compatible devices, enabling local processing that keeps data on the device and works without a network connection.
  • Apple’s APIs support guided generation for structured outputs and tool calling so apps can fetch app-specific facts before the model responds.
  • Early adopters include SmartGym converting natural‑language workouts into structured routines and summaries, Stoic producing contextual journaling prompts, and CellWalk delivering level‑appropriate explanations of biology terms.
  • Productivity and media examples include Stuff’s new Listen Mode and Scan Mode for turning speech or handwriting into tasks, OmniFocus 4 auto‑generating projects and steps, VLLO suggesting scene‑appropriate music and stickers, and SwingVision coaching tennis and pickleball play.
  • Developers report strong performance and quick integration, while Apple notes language and regional limits and requires supported hardware for Apple Intelligence features.