iOS 26 allows selection of AI model in short commands

As part of iOS 26, Apple will implement numerous new AI functions in its short command app (shortcuts). This includes interacting with content via Apple Intelligence, but also the selection of concrete models – something that actually does not work without scripting with on -board agents, since Apple herself hits the respective selection itself.

Mighty model selection

So there is now the “Use Model” function, with which Apple script authors gives the option of selecting whether the model used locally (“On-Device”), in Apple’s cloud (private cloud compute, PCC) or at Openai (chatt). This also shows how good the respective outputs are, which should be particularly interesting for comparisons between the local and Apple’s cloud model.

Apple gives in its Presseinfos for iOS 26 How this can be used: A student could use the Apple Intelligence models via a short command to have an audio transcription of a seminar compared to your own notes and may complement any missing. However, Apple does not apparently not really trust its own models: “Users can also use chatt with their broad world knowledge and expertise,” adds the group.

Practical features in the gallery

New, pre-formulated short commands with Apple Intelligence, which can be found via the gallery, allow the creation of a daily morning overview, the creation of recipes only in the house or the summary of PDF content. Further short commands for Apple Intelligence concern the existing image generators (“Create Image”, Create Image), Visual Intelligence (can be opened from a short command) and manipulation of text. In the latter, lists and tables can be created from existing content, correct text, rewrite, summarize or change the tone.

iOS 26 will probably be made available in September. Apple intelligence features in short commands are also available on supported Macs and iPads. At least one iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max is required on the iPhone, the iPhone 16 series supports the AI system with all models (including 16e).