Apple’s introduction of Apple Intelligence in iOS 18 brought advanced features like Siri’s integration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT. However, this functionality is limited to newer devices such as the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 models, leaving many users with older iPhones seeking alternative methods to access similar capabilities. Fortunately, there are effective workarounds that enable Siri to interact with ChatGPT on these older devices.
Understanding the Limitations
Apple Intelligence relies on the A17 Pro chip and newer hardware, which means older devices like the iPhone 16e or iPhone 14 Pro are excluded. Apple says on-device processing requires cutting-edge silicon, and only recent Pro models have the power. This hardware limitation has led to the exclusion of many iPhone users from accessing Siri’s ChatGPT integration. However, by leveraging Apple’s Shortcuts app and OpenAI’s resources, users can bridge this gap.
Method 1: Utilizing the ChatGPT App with Siri
The most straightforward approach involves using the official ChatGPT app available on the App Store. Here’s how to set it up:
1. Install the ChatGPT App: Download and install the ChatGPT app from the App Store.
2. Configure Siri to Recognize ChatGPT: Once installed, Siri can recognize the command Ask ChatGPT. When you invoke Siri and say, Ask ChatGPT, your voice input is directed to the ChatGPT app. ChatGPT processes the query and provides a response, which Siri then reads aloud.
This method allows for a seamless interaction between Siri and ChatGPT. However, it’s important to note that this integration may not be as smooth as Apple’s native implementation. Users might occasionally experience issues such as Siri mishearing commands or delays in processing. To enhance reliability, creating a custom Shortcut can be beneficial.
Method 2: Creating a Custom Shortcut with OpenAI’s API
For a more flexible and customizable experience, users can create a Shortcut that utilizes OpenAI’s API. This method requires an OpenAI account and involves the following steps:
1. Obtain an OpenAI API Key: Sign up for an OpenAI account and generate an API key.
2. Create a New Shortcut: Open the Shortcuts app on your iPhone and create a new Shortcut.
3. Configure the Shortcut: Add actions to the Shortcut that:
– Accept voice input from Siri.
– Send the input to OpenAI’s API using your API key.
– Receive and process the response from ChatGPT.
– Output the response through Siri.
This setup allows for a more tailored interaction with ChatGPT and can often be faster than using the ChatGPT app. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the associated costs. OpenAI offers a limited free allowance for API usage, after which requests are billed. The costs vary depending on the model used:
– GPT-5: Approximately $1.25 per million input tokens and $10 per million output tokens.
– GPT-5 Mini and Nano: More affordable options suitable for simpler tasks.
– GPT-4o Mini: Starts at $0.15 per million input tokens, with full GPT-4o at $2.50 per million.
– o1-pro: A high-end reasoning model costing $150 per million input tokens and $600 per million output tokens.
Frequent use can lead to significant expenses, so monitoring usage is advisable.
Privacy Considerations
When using these workarounds, it’s important to consider privacy implications. Apple’s native integration anonymizes user data before sending queries to OpenAI, enhancing privacy. In contrast, these DIY methods send requests directly to OpenAI, potentially exposing personal information. Users should weigh the convenience of these integrations against potential privacy risks.
Method 3: Using the Apple Intelligence Action in Shortcuts
For users with devices supporting Apple Intelligence, iOS 26 introduces a new Use Model action in the Shortcuts app, allowing direct interaction with ChatGPT:
1. Create or Edit a Shortcut: Open the Shortcuts app and create a new Shortcut or edit an existing one.
2. Add the Use Model Action: Insert the Use Model action into your Shortcut.
3. Configure the Action: Set ChatGPT as the model and define the prompt, such as Summarize this note or Rewrite this text in plain English.
4. Set Output Actions: Add actions like Speak Text or Show Result to have Siri deliver the response.
This method offers a streamlined and integrated experience without the need for third-party apps or API keys. However, it is only available on devices that support Apple Intelligence, excluding older iPhone models.
Conclusion
While Apple’s official ChatGPT integration is limited to newer iPhone models, users with older devices can still access similar functionalities through alternative methods. By using the ChatGPT app with Siri or creating custom Shortcuts with OpenAI’s API, users can enhance their Siri experience. It’s essential to consider the potential costs and privacy implications associated with these workarounds. As technology evolves, staying informed about available options ensures that all users can make the most of their devices, regardless of hardware limitations.
