Apple taps Google’s Gemini to power Siri and Apple Intelligence
Apple will use Google’s Gemini models to power Apple Intelligence and a revamped Siri, running on-device or Apple’s Private Cloud Compute to preserve user privacy.
Overview
Apple and Google announced a multiyear partnership using Google’s Gemini to underpin Apple Foundation Models, powering Apple Intelligence features and a promised overhaul of Siri arriving with OS26 releases.
Apple delayed many AI features from 2024; the companies said Gemini-powered Siri will arrive later this year with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26.
Apple will run Gemini-based models on-device or in its Private Cloud Compute, aiming to separate user data from Google’s infrastructure while integrating Google technology into Apple services.
Reports say Apple may pay roughly $1 billion annually; Alphabet briefly topped $4 trillion market value after the announcement, underscoring investor enthusiasm for AI.
The deal gives Google a validation win over rivals like OpenAI; industry analysts call it major, while critics warn about concentration of power in AI partnerships.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the story as Apple 'playing catch up' to Google, using evaluative language ("missteps," "coup," "glaring omissions"), privileging market and analyst metrics and competitor moves while treating company statements and analyst quotes as source content. Editorial choices highlight Google’s ascendancy and Apple’s delay, creating a competitive narrative.
Sources (8)
FAQ
Gemini-powered Siri and Apple Intelligence features will arrive later in 2026 with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26, following delays from 2024.
Apple will run Gemini-based models on-device or through its Private Cloud Compute, keeping user data separate from Google's infrastructure and maintaining privacy standards.
Apple may pay Google approximately $1 billion annually for access to Gemini AI technology.
After evaluating options including OpenAI and Anthropic, Apple selected Gemini as the most capable foundation for its Apple Foundation Models to power advanced Siri features.
The deal validates Google's AI leadership over rivals like OpenAI, boosted Alphabet's market value past $4 trillion briefly, and expands its role in Apple devices amid antitrust scrutiny.
History
5 sources