I’ve just learned that Apple is teaming up with Google to enhance its future AI capabilities, including a much-anticipated upgrade to Siri.
What’s happening: Apple plans to utilize Google’s Gemini AI models and cloud technology to bolster its upcoming Apple Foundation Models. This significant partnership is set to launch later this year.
Why it matters to me: With Gemini’s integration, Siri is poised to transform into a genuine AI-driven answer engine, fundamentally altering how I, along with millions of iOS users, search for information and interact with digital content.
Driving the news: According to Apple, after thorough assessments, they found Google’s Gemini model to be the optimal foundation for their AI objectives.
- Back in September, I discovered that Apple was in discussions with Google about using a custom Gemini model for a revamped Siri.
- I remember when Apple delayed the Siri upgrade last year, which led to increased scrutiny of their AI strategy.
What they’re saying: Here’s a statement Google shared via X:
Apple and Google have entered into a multi-year collaboration under which the next generation of Apple Foundation Models will be based on Google’s Gemini models and cloud technology. These models will help power future Apple Intelligence features, including a more personalized Siri coming this year. After careful evaluation, Apple determined that Google’s Al technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models and is excited about the innovative new experiences it will unlock for Apple users. Apple Intelligence will continue to run on Apple devices and Private Cloud Compute, while maintaining Apple’s industry-leading privacy standards.
The bigger picture: It’s fascinating to see that Google briefly surpassed a $4 trillion market cap last week, overtaking Apple for the first time since 2019.
- Google’s Gemini 3 model became available late last year as part of its expansive AI initiatives.
- Meanwhile, Apple has largely stayed out of the intense AI competition that took off with ChatGPT’s release in late 2022, while competitors invested heavily in models, chips, and cloud infrastructure.
Inspired by this post on Search Engine Land.
