AI Issue: Apple Gemini Integration and the Direction of AI Siri
Reports have emerged that Apple is planning to use Google's Gemini AI in the new Siri.
Key Highlights
- Apple is in discussions with Google about a licensing deal to use Gemini AI models in a new version of Siri.
- While no deal has been finalized, if it goes through, Apple would be able to use a customized Gemini model.
- Apple is evaluating Gemini alongside its own AI tools and OpenAI.
- The improved Siri was originally planned for spring 2025, but has been delayed to 2026 due to technical issues.
- Siri has long struggled to keep up with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa in handling complex multi-step tasks.
- Apple already has an active partnership with OpenAI, making ChatGPT available on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
- Apple's strategy reflects its approach of building diverse AI partnerships to expand performance, flexibility, and user choice.
Apple's AI Dilemma
According to Reuters citing a Bloomberg report, Apple is in early negotiations with Google to use Gemini AI technology in an improved version of Siri.
Discussions center around licensing a customized version of Gemini.
Sources say no final decision has been made yet, and Apple continues to weigh whether to rely on external AI partners or further strengthen its internal models.
Siri's Long-Standing Problem
The planned Siri upgrade was originally set for this spring.
However, ongoing technical issues have pushed the timeline to 2026.
Since its debut in 2011, Siri has consistently underperformed compared to Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, particularly in areas like multi-step tasks and app integrations.
With competitors rolling out new AI-powered assistants, Apple's delay is increasing the pressure to deliver a significantly improved version of Siri.
Apple's ChatGPT Integration Has Already Begun
While Apple explores a potential partnership with Google Gemini, it has already started a significant AI integration.
Earlier this year, Apple partnered with OpenAI and introduced ChatGPT into its Apple Intelligence project to enhance features across iOS 18, iPadOS 18, and macOS Sequoia.
Through this integration, Siri can forward complex requests to ChatGPT, and users can access advanced generative AI through tools like Writing Tools and Visual Intelligence.
Importantly, ChatGPT is an optional add-on rather than the default engine for all Apple devices.
Core AI functions still run on Apple's own large language models, with ChatGPT available through the "Ask ChatGPT" feature for deeper questions.
Users have full control: ChatGPT can be turned on or off and works without an OpenAI account, ensuring flexibility and privacy.
This dual approach reflects Apple's belief that no single AI model is right for every task.
By combining internal models, external partners like OpenAI, and potentially Google, Apple aims to deliver the most powerful AI experience while maintaining user choice.
Seeking External Partners
Earlier this year, Apple also spoke with Anthropic, the makers of Claude, about using AI models.
The new discussions with Google signal that Apple is still evaluating which approach delivers the most powerful solution.
These moves come as Google is actively marketing Gemini as a cross-platform generative AI model, already integrated into Android devices and Google services.
Competitive Landscape
Apple's hesitation contrasts with companies like Samsung, which have already introduced Gemini-powered AI features in their smartphones.
As competitors deliver new assistants to consumers faster, Apple risks finding itself at a disadvantage in the next-generation AI race.
However, by seeking a partnership with Google, Apple can leverage proven AI technology while continuing to improve its own internal efforts.
Q&A
Q: What is Apple discussing with Google?
A: Apple is evaluating a deal to use Google's Gemini AI models to power a new version of Siri.
Q: When will the new Siri be released?
A: Originally expected in 2025, Apple's Siri overhaul has been delayed to 2026 due to technical issues.
Q: Is Apple already using other AI models?
A: Yes. Apple has an official partnership with OpenAI and uses ChatGPT for advanced requests in Apple Intelligence across iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
Q: Why does Apple want Gemini?
A: Gemini could provide advanced generative AI capabilities to Siri, helping Apple compete with Google Assistant, Alexa, and Samsung's AI features.
Q: What are Siri's current weaknesses?
A: Siri struggles with multi-step requests, complex task execution, and app integrations, areas where competitors currently outperform Apple.
Outlook
The Apple-Google talks represent a pivotal moment in Apple's AI strategy.
By already using ChatGPT while considering Gemini, Apple is adopting a multi-partner approach to keep Siri competitive.
This strategy reveals a larger truth: no single AI model can do everything well.
Apple's willingness to combine internal development with external expertise could help it catch up with competitors and deliver a more flexible AI experience.
Apple's next move with Siri will not only define its AI roadmap but determine whether it can reclaim leadership in the voice assistant era.
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Source: Alicia Shapiro, AiNews, "Apple in Talks to Use Google's Gemini AI for Revamped Siri", https://www.ainews.com/p/apple-in-talks-to-use-google-s-gemini-ai-for-revamped-siri, (2025.08.25)