In a surprising turn of events, Apple is reportedly joining forces with Google to infuse its devices with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. This multi-year partnership aims to enhance Siri and introduce a wave of new AI-driven features across the iPhone ecosystem. The collaboration signifies a notable shift for Apple, a company known for its tradition of developing core technologies in-house.
After careful evaluation, Apple determined that Google's AI technology offered the most robust foundation for its AI ambitions. As a result, Google's Gemini models are expected to power more complex, generative AI tasks within Siri, including advanced conversational responses, content creation, and contextual understanding. While leveraging Gemini for specific capabilities, Apple will continue developing its proprietary AI systems to work in tandem with Google's models. This ensures Apple maintains control over technology deployment, prioritizing privacy, on-device processing, and user security.
The collaboration arrives at a crucial time, with Apple facing increased pressure from competitors rapidly integrating generative AI into their products. The upgraded Siri, expected to roll out later in 2026, is anticipated to be a significant step in addressing this gap. The slow progress had sparked concerns that Apple was falling behind in the competitive AI race dominated by rivals like OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google. By turning to Google, Apple gains access to a battle-tested model while buying time to further develop its internal capabilities.
For Google, this partnership represents a major win, embedding Gemini into millions of iPhones globally and solidifying its position as a leading AI model provider. It also highlights the growing trust in Google's AI technology, even amidst competition with OpenAI.
According to Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives, the partnership is "a major validation moment for Google" and "a stepping stone" for Apple to get its AI strategy on track. Ives suggests Apple must solidify Google Gemini as its exclusive AI partner and introduce a revamped Siri promptly in March or April. He underscores that Apple remains a key component and a favored tech stock for 2026.
Apple's AI strategy has been characterized as privacy-centric and deeply integrated within its ecosystem. Unlike competitors prioritizing rapid, cloud-driven progress, Apple focuses on innovation aligning with security, user trust, and seamless device interoperability. Apple Intelligence will continue to run on Apple devices and Private Cloud Compute while maintaining Apple's privacy standards.
While financial details remain undisclosed, reports suggest Apple could pay Google around $1 billion annually for Gemini access. The upgraded Siri is expected to include features like "World Knowledge Answers," enabling information searches and AI-generated summaries based on web results.
The integration of Gemini will adhere to Apple's strict privacy standards. Apple has also considered integrating AI models from companies like Anthropic and Perplexity.
The announcement follows a period of restructuring within Apple's AI division, with Mike Rockwell replacing John Giannandrea as AI chief. The company had delayed the release of an improved Siri, now slated for later in the year.
