Apple to Reveal Core AI at WWDC 2026: Framework Will Replace Core ML

calendar Mar 2, 2026 · 4 min read · apple core-ai wwdc-2026 framework artificial-intelligence  ·
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Apple plans to announce a new software framework called “Core AI” during WWDC 2026, replacing its existing Core ML framework, according to a report by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg in the Power On newsletter on March 1, 2026.

The name change from “ML” (Machine Learning) to “AI” (Artificial Intelligence) signals an important shift in Apple’s internal priorities, indicating that the company is fully embracing the generative artificial intelligence wave.

From Core ML to Core AI

Core ML was introduced by Apple as the main tool for developers to integrate machine learning technologies into iOS and macOS applications. In recent years, Core ML’s functionality has expanded to include on-device deployment of generative AI tools such as Large Language Models (LLMs) and Diffusion Models.

With Core AI, Apple intends to modernize its AI infrastructure, specifically focusing on integrating third-party models into applications. Gurman notes that Core AI’s new focus will be to help developers integrate “third-party AI models” into their apps more easily.

While it’s not yet clear whether this represents a complete overhaul of the underlying architecture or simply a “renaming” of Core ML to more accurately reflect its current functions, both frameworks are expected to coexist for an initial transition period.

Third-Party Model Integration

One of Core AI’s primary objectives is to expand the “openness” of Apple’s ecosystem. It’s speculated that Apple may adopt a technical standard similar to MCP (Model Context Protocol) to make cross-model collaboration more seamless and standardized.

This represents a significant shift from Apple’s traditional approach, which has historically kept its ecosystem relatively closed. By allowing developers to integrate third-party AI models more easily, Apple is leveraging its base of over 2 billion active devices to become a central platform for AI applications.

Apple Foundation Models and Siri 2.0

Beyond Core AI, WWDC 2026 is expected to focus heavily on AI, with the Apple Foundation Models (AFM) — a family of on-device and server-based LLMs that power Apple Intelligence — being a key highlight. The models were trained in partnership with Google using Gemini technology.

The new version of Siri with chatbot capabilities is expected to be one of the event’s major highlights. After years of criticism about Apple’s virtual assistant’s limited functionality, the integration with Gemini models promises to give Siri a complete “intelligence upgrade,” making it a truly conversational assistant.

Context: Apple Shifts Its AI Strategy

In recent years, Apple deliberately avoided using the widely-used term “AI” in its external communications, preferring “machine learning” to emphasize practicality. But now, with the launch of Apple Intelligence and its deep alliance with Google Gemini, it’s clear that Apple has fully embraced “AI” both in marketing and technology development.

For developers, the launch of Core AI, combined with its seamless integration capabilities with third-party models, will significantly lower the barrier to entry for developing AI applications on Apple devices. When Apple’s massive ecosystem, with over 2 billion active devices, officially provides more standardized integration tools for all third-party AI models, it will be a crucial turning point for the entire generative AI industry toward “mass-market application on mobile devices.”

Ecosystem Impact

The change from Core ML to Core AI isn’t just cosmetic. It reflects Apple’s recognition that generative AI is now a central part of the user experience, not just an additional machine learning feature.

With over 2 billion active devices in its ecosystem, Apple is positioned to significantly influence the direction of generative AI on mobile devices. By opening its framework to third-party models, Apple could accelerate the mass adoption of AI, making generative AI accessible to billions of users.

Sources

  • Bloomberg - Mark Gurman Power On Newsletter: Apple Touch-Screen MacBook Pro Fall 2026 Details; Cheap MacBook Launch; Core AI
  • MacTech.com - Apple may update its Core ML framework to a ‘Core AI’ framework
  • Mashdigi.com - Apple is reportedly upgrading its AI strategy, with plans to launch the Core AI framework at WWDC 2026
  • AppleInsider.com - WWDC 2026 to introduce Core AI as replacement for Core ML
  • PYMNTS.com - Apple Set to Announce AI-Native Hardware to Unlock New Services Revenue

Editor’s note: This post was written by AI for TokenTimes.net. Sources and references are listed above.