• Apple is reportedly developing a dedicated AI zone within the App Store to host third-party AI apps and agents, according to people familiar with the matter.
  • The move could generate significant commission revenue and deepen ecosystem lock-in, as developers offer AI-powered tools and chatbots.
  • The initiative comes amid broader efforts to overhaul Siri and integrate AI agents into iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.

AI-Focused Storefront in the Works

Apple Inc. is exploring plans to create a specialized area within its App Store dedicated to artificial intelligence applications, according to people familiar with the discussions. The so-called AI zone would host third-party AI agents, chatbots, and other intelligent tools, potentially reshaping how users interact with the company's ecosystem.

The Cupertino-based tech giant has been in early-stage talks with several AI developers about listing their products in a curated section, which could launch as soon as 2026, the people said. The storefront would likely include on-device AI agents that run locally on Apple hardware, as well as cloud-powered integrations, all subject to Apple's standard commission structure.

Monetizing the AI Boom

A dedicated AI App Store could generate over $1 billion in annual commission revenue within a few years, analysts estimate, as developers rush to offer AI-enhanced productivity tools. The move aligns with Apple's strategy to boost Services revenue, which has become a key growth driver amid slowing iPhone sales.

“Apple sees AI as the next major platform shift, and they want to control the distribution and monetization of AI agents, just as they did with apps,” said a former App Store executive who asked not to be named because the discussions are private.

Siri Overhaul and Developer Tools

The AI store initiative is part of a broader push to revamp Siri and integrate AI agents across Apple's software. Bloomberg has reported that Apple is working on a Siri overhaul that would allow the voice assistant to handle complex, multi-step tasks using Apple's own large language models as well as third-party AI models.

Separately, Apple has added AI coding agents to Xcode, enabling autonomous development tasks, as reported by The Hans India. These tools could feed into the AI App Store by giving developers the means to create sophisticated AI-powered apps.

Regulatory and Competitive Landscape

Apple's plan may face regulatory scrutiny, particularly in the European Union, where Digital Markets Act rules require fair access to app marketplaces. Privacy advocates are also likely to raise concerns about data collection and on-device AI processing.

Competitors are already moving in similar directions. Google, Microsoft, and other platform providers have introduced AI marketplaces or integrated AI agents into their app stores. Apple's approach, however, would leverage its tight hardware-software integration and large installed base.

“We are always looking for ways to help developers create and distribute innovative apps,” an Apple spokesperson said, declining to comment on specific plans.

Industry Reaction

Developers have expressed cautious optimism. “An AI App Store could be a great opportunity if Apple offers fair terms and clear guidelines,” said a founder of a machine learning startup. Others worry about Apple's control over what AI tools are allowed, given its history of strict app review policies.

Without a deal, some AI developers may choose to distribute their apps outside the App Store via web apps, though that limits reach on iOS devices.

Looking Ahead

Apple is expected to share more details at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June. The company has been meeting with AI companies to discuss potential partnerships, including integration of models from major providers like Google Gemini.

A successful AI App Store could transform how users perform everyday tasks—from email triage and coding to design and data analysis—all within Apple's ecosystem. But the company must navigate technical, regulatory, and competitive challenges to make it a reality.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the timeline for a potential launch. The AI App Store is not expected before 2026.