Apple Intelligence alternatives
6 writing tools in the same lane as Apple Intelligence, ranked by editorial score.
IN
IntelliBar
Writing · Multi-model (GPT-4o, Claude 3.5, Gemini, o1, Llama, DeepSeek, Ollama)
6.8
Native macOS menu-bar client that talks to every major LLM with your own API keys.
Freemium· Free evaluation + one-time license; you pay model providers directly via your own API keysmulti-model-chatmenu-bar-assistant
WR
WriteMage
Writing · OpenAI ChatGPT (BYO key or managed)
6.8
Native macOS and iOS overlay that drops ChatGPT into any app, Spotlight-style.
Freemium· Beta free; Lifetime $58.99; Basic $10/mo; Personal $11.87/mo (managed API)writing-assistantmacos-overlay
AA
Ask AI
Writing · GPT-4o mini
6.8
ChatGPT on your wrist: a watchOS-only AI assistant from Sindre Sorhus with no subscription.
Paid· One-time App Store purchase; no subscriptionquick-qatranslation
GE
Gemini
Writing · Gemini 2.x (Flash / Pro / Ultra)
7.3
Google's flagship multimodal AI assistant with deep integration into Workspace and Android.
Freemium· Free tier; Google One AI Premium $19.99/mo includes Gemini Advancedchat-assistantresearch
MA
MacGPT
Writing · GPT-4 / ChatGPT (OpenAI)
7.0
Native macOS menu bar and system-wide wrapper that puts ChatGPT one keystroke away.
Paid· One-time purchase via Gumroadinline-writingmenu-bar-chat
PA
PaletteBrain
Writing · OpenAI (BYO key); Azure OpenAI supported
6.9
macOS keyboard launcher that pipes selected text in any app to ChatGPT via your own OpenAI key.
Paid· Personal $29 one-time (early); Family $99 one-time; Team custom. BYO OpenAI key.inline-rewritingai-shortcuts