Apple is extending its cooperation with Google, this time to use its Gemini AI to power Siri later this year.
The move constitutes a multi-year partnership in which Apple will leverage Google’s Gemini AI and cloud technology for Apple’s own Apple Intelligence features.
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, we determined that Google’s technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models and we’re excited about the innovative new experiences it will unlock for our users,” Apple has said in a statement on Monday.
The latest development follows recent reports that Apple was in talks with Google for a custom Gemini model for a new Siri version. This means Siri will come more personalized, more powerful, and more efficient than in its current form.
It’s been reported that the phone maker will pay Google $1 billion to utilize Gemini AI.
The cooperation is reciprocal, too. Google also pays Apple billions each year to keep Google search as the default search engine on iPhones. But news of a browser monopoly could also force Google to share its Chrome browser.
Pressure on Apple to enhance AI
To put this into perspective, Apple has remained conservative compared to other tech competitors. Google, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft, etc. have forked out billions on AI products and services. OpenAI has been steadily growing its clout at the forefront since the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022. Apple does have its own AI suite, but it is often called out for not being versatile and efficient enough.
Therefore, the onus is on Apple to deliver a better Siri AI voice service. Apple has delayed the upgrade until 2026. “It’s going to take us longer than we thought to deliver on these features, and we anticipate rolling them out in the coming year,” the company said in a statement at the time.
Apple cooperates with OpenAI to use ChatGPT capabilities in Siri and Apple Intelligence. So, it’s interesting to see how the prominent phone maker proceeds with Gemini benefits.
Also: OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Search, Availability, How to Use?
Anyway, the latest cooperation between Apple and Google for Siri reflects the inevitable cooperation for global tech giants. It shows a need to cooperate, innovate, and evolve together in the growingly AI-powered digital landscape.
