Apple signals paid iCloud Plus upgrades for heavier AI usage

During an earnings call, Apple CEO Tim Cook said he expects users will want to use Apple Intelligence and the upcoming Siri AI "a lot," and that Apple "will have some kind of upgrade possibilities on iCloud Plus where people can buy up the stack."

The remarks suggest Apple may introduce paid tiers or add-ons to iCloud Plus to accommodate heavier usage of AI features that rely on server-based models, which currently have daily usage limits.

Apple previously stated that its AI features, including image generation, have "daily usage limits because they rely on powerful server models," and that "increased access" is available across most iCloud Plus plans.

Apple Intelligence and the new Siri AI are slated for broader release this fall with iOS 27, which will include a standalone Siri AI app with a ChatGPT-like interface and expanded on-screen and cross-app capabilities.

Apple reported $30.74 billion in revenue from its services business over the past quarter, which includes subscriptions such as iCloud Plus, Apple TV, and Apple One.