Apple plans to use Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence model to power its updated version of Siri, which is set to launch later this year, the two companies announced Monday.
“After careful evaluation, Apple determined that Google’s Al technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models and is excited about the innovative new experiences it will unlock for Apple users,” Apple and Google said in a statement. The two companies noted they have entered into a multi-year contract whereby Apple will use Google’s Gemini model and cloud computing technology to power AI features.
The move could help Apple accelerate the release of its more advanced, AI-powered version of its Siri voice assistant, which was delayed after first being teased at the company’s 2024 Worldwide Development Conference. The delay has contributed to concerns that Apple is behind fellow tech giants in AI development.
The agreement could indicate that Apple continues to struggle with developing a competitive, in-house AI model, but the news is being viewed by Wall Street as a positive sign for the iPhone maker. Apple is betting on added AI capabilities, including the updated Siri, to boost device sales after several rocky years for the iPhone.
It’s also a major win for Google in the ongoing Silicon Valley battle to create the most capable and widely used AI model. Apple has also partnered with OpenAI to use ChatGPT to power some AI features, but the deal announced Monday puts Gemini at the center of Apple’s future AI strategy. It was not immediately clear whether and how Apple’s deal with Google will affect the integration of ChatGPT into some of its AI features on iPhone.
Info source: CNN