Apple Intelligence may let you subscribe to a paid ChatGPT plan

Apple Intelligence is the main selling point of the iPhone 16 series. Apple has opted for its suite of AI-powered features rather than big hardware improvements to attract the public. The company also struck a deal with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT functionality into iOS. Now, a new finding suggests that Apple will offer the option to subscribe to a paid ChatGPT plan from within Apple Intelligence settings.

Although ChatGPT is technically part of the Apple Intelligence suite, the Cupertino giant separated them into two distinct platforms. This is because Apple’s AI suite uses on-device processing, while ChatGPT relies on the cloud. So, when Apple’s AI is unable to complete a task, it will explicitly ask the user if they want to use ChatGPT. This design decision is for privacy, leaving it up to individuals to decide whether or not to use the internet.

Apple Intelligence settings include the option to subscribe to a paid ChatGPT plan in iOS 18.2 beta

ChatGPT is free to use, although there is a usage limit for the more advanced features. Users must subscribe to a paid plan to continue enjoying the best features of the chatbot once they reach the quota. As spotted by MacRumors, the latest iOS 18.2 beta integrates a new screen from which you can directly subscribe to ChatGPT Plus.

Under the “ChatGPT extension” settings, there’s a new “Daily Limit” option. From there, you can monitor how much of the free quota for ChatGPT’s advanced features you’ve utilized. Under the same option, there’s now an “Upgrade to ChatGPT Plus” button that will take you to the subscription screen. For reference, ChatGPT Plus costs $20 per month, offering access to the more advanced models and a much higher usage quota.

It’s not yet clear whether Apple will force you to use its payment platform for the subscription. In that case, the Cupertino giant will take a 30% cut, potentially raising the final price. OpenAI and Apple have a deal for the integration of ChatGPT, so there might not be a fee. However, there has been no confirmation on that front yet. In the recent past, insiders revealed that the deal between both companies was not for money but for ChatGPT’s exposure.

Apple Intelligence will also be paid in the future

AI-powered features on mobile devices won’t always be free, neither on Android. Both Samsung and Apple will start charging a fee for the most advanced options in the coming years. Industry experts estimate that Apple could charge up to $20 a month for it. So, in the worst scenario, Apple fans may have to pay $40 a month for a full, unlimited AI experience.