# Apple Enhances Image Playground with ChatGPT and External Models
With the launch of macOS Tahoe 26, iPadOS 26, and iOS 26, Apple has made notable improvements to its Image Playground application by incorporating ChatGPT as a generative image source. This development signifies an extension of Apple’s collaboration with OpenAI, aiming to deliver users a more comprehensive and flexible image creation experience.
## Overview of Image Playground
When Apple initially launched Image Playground, the app employed its own models to allow users to create illustrations based on prompts or their contacts. Users had the option to select from set styles and themes, such as “Birthday,” “Fantasy,” or “Starry Night.” However, the initial outputs were frequently viewed as basic in comparison to other sophisticated image generation models on the market.
## Incorporation of ChatGPT Styles
To resolve these challenges, Apple has added ChatGPT styles to the newest iterations of its operating systems. These styles include preset filters to assist users in initiating their creative journey. Furthermore, users can now provide direct prompts to OpenAI’s model, offering enhanced flexibility in reaching their desired results.
## Broadened Access to Third-Party Models
Latest beta updates have shown that Apple is set to expand the assortment of third-party models available in Image Playground. Code modifications suggest the introduction of a new metric called “estimated latency,” along with identifiers for providers. This implies that Apple might assess the optimal model for a task based on latency or could use this information for internal analysis.
The structural modifications within the app indicate a commitment to facilitating multiple third-party models, presenting a promising avenue for users seeking varied creative resources.
## Possible New Models
Although specific information regarding new models has not yet been disclosed, a strong candidate is Google’s Gemini 2.5 Flash Image, also referred to as Nano Banana. This model has gained traction for its hyper-realistic results and its capacity to accurately render likenesses from user-provided images. Its success has led the Google Gemini app to the forefront of the App Store in numerous countries, including the United States.
There is also speculation that Apple may allow users to download open-source models for application within Image Playground, akin to the features offered in Xcode. However, due to potential for misuse, this prospect remains ambiguous.
## Final Thoughts
Apple is proactively enhancing the capabilities and user experience of Image Playground by integrating ChatGPT and laying the groundwork for the addition of more third-party models. As the application progresses, users can anticipate a richer and more powerful image generation tool that addresses a diverse array of creative requirements.
