Apple has selected Google's Gemini AI models to enhance its Siri virtual assistant in a forthcoming update. The decision, announced in a joint statement, marks a shift from previous integrations with OpenAI's ChatGPT. This multi-year partnership aims to deliver more capable AI experiences while upholding Apple's privacy standards.
Apple announced on Monday that it will use Google's Gemini language models to power the next iteration of Siri, expected later this year. The move follows months of rumors and confirms reports from Bloomberg's Mark Gurman that Apple would pay Google approximately $1 billion annually for access to its AI technology.
"After careful evaluation, Apple determined that Google's AI technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models and is excited about the innovative new experiences it will unlock for Apple users," the companies stated jointly. Apple emphasized that Apple Intelligence, including the upgraded Siri, will run on its devices and Private Cloud Compute servers to maintain industry-leading privacy, keeping user data separate from Google's infrastructure.
This partnership builds on the existing alliance between the two tech giants. Google paid Apple $20 billion in 2022 to remain the default search engine on Apple devices, a deal now under antitrust scrutiny. Despite competing in smartphones—Apple's iOS versus Google's Android—the companies continue to collaborate in AI and search.
The announcement is a setback for OpenAI, whose ChatGPT has been integrated elsewhere in iOS and macOS. Apple reportedly tested models from OpenAI and Anthropic's Claude before opting for Gemini. Earlier tests showed ChatGPT outperforming prior Gemini versions, but Google's recent Gemini 3 release prompted OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to declare a "code red" and delay features.
Originally promised for iOS 18 in 2024, the AI-powered Siri was delayed due to reliability issues. It is now slated for updates to iOS, iPadOS, and macOS later this year. Apple still aims to advance its own in-house models to reduce reliance on third parties.
