The two-year-old partnership between Apple and OpenAI is reportedly facing growing tensions with the AI startup failing to see the expected benefits from its deal with the iPhone maker and preparing ‌possible legal action.  

OpenAI is seeking to resolve the dispute without legal action but its lawyers are actively evaluating multiple courses of action with the support of an external law firm. One option which is under consideration is notifying Apple of a breach of contract but not filing a full lawsuit, as per news report.   

The partnership began in 2024 when Apple introduced “Apple Intelligence,” integrating AI capabilities across its ecosystem, including Siri, while also bringing ChatGPT functionality to Apple devices.

Under the agreement, users can access ChatGPT responses through Siri, and iPhone users are able to subscribe to ChatGPT directly through the iOS settings menu.

OpenAI had expected the collaboration to significantly expand ChatGPT subscriptions and pave the way for deeper integration across Apple’s applications. However, according to the report, the relationship has since weakened, and attempts by OpenAI to renegotiate terms have not progressed.

Recent reports suggest Apple is preparing to broaden its AI ecosystem by allowing users to choose from multiple third-party AI models, potentially reducing OpenAI’s unique position within Apple’s software environment.

According to report, Apple is currently testing integrations with both Anthropic’s Claude and Google Gemini as part of its evolving AI strategy.

The source clarified that Apple’s engagement with other AI providers is not the primary reason behind OpenAI’s legal considerations, as the original agreement was never intended to be exclusive.