Apple is exploring a potential partnership with Google to use Gemini AI technology for powering a revamped version of Siri, according to recent reports. The talks are still in early stages, with Apple weighing whether to use external AI models or stick with its own in-house technology.
Google has already begun training a custom version of its Gemini model that could run on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute servers, suggesting serious consideration of the partnership. This development comes after Apple reportedly held similar discussions with other AI companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic.
The potential collaboration emerges as Apple faces delays with its promised Siri upgrade. The company originally scheduled a major Siri overhaul for spring 2025, but engineering challenges forced a postponement to 2026. This setback led to internal restructuring, with software chief Craig Federighi and Vision Pro creator Mike Rockwell now overseeing the project.
“This has put us in a position to not just deliver what we announced, but to deliver a much bigger upgrade than that we envisioned,” Federighi said about the revamped Siri architecture.
Apple’s approach involves developing two versions of the new Siri simultaneously – an internal version called “Linwood” using Apple’s own models, and an external version codenamed “Glenwood” that would use outside technology. This parallel development allows Apple to compare performance before making a final decision, which is still weeks away.
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The potential Google partnership is particularly noteworthy given the companies’ competitive relationship in the smartphone market. However, they already maintain a significant business relationship, with Google paying billions annually to remain the default search engine on Apple devices – an arrangement currently under scrutiny from the U.S. Justice Department.
If Apple chooses Google’s Gemini, it would place Apple in a similar position to Samsung, whose Galaxy AI features already rely partly on Gemini technology. The move would represent a significant shift in Apple’s AI strategy, potentially acknowledging that external partnerships might help close the gap with competitors who have moved faster in deploying advanced AI assistants.
Market reaction to the news was positive for both companies, with Alphabet shares rising 3.7% and Apple stock up 1.6% following the Bloomberg report. Neither company has officially commented on the discussions.
For Apple users, the potential Gemini-powered Siri would likely deliver more advanced capabilities, including better understanding of personal context and improved voice control across devices – features that competitors already offer.
