Apple exploring Google’s Gemini AI to revamp Siri

Apple has trailed behind competitors like Google and Samsung in adopting generative AI, delaying its planned Siri overhaul to next year due to engineering setbacks, while rivals have launched assistants capable of complex tasks and real-time contextual interactions

Apple is reportedly exploring a potential partnership with Google to integrate the latter’s Gemini AI technology into a future version of Siri, its voice assistant, according to sources familiar with the matter, Bloomberg reported on Friday.

The iPhone maker is said to be in preliminary discussions with Alphabet, Google's parent company, to develop a customized AI model that could underpin a redesigned Siri experience as early as next year. While talks are ongoing, no final decision has been made, and Apple is still weighing whether to proceed with its own in-house models or opt for an external partner.

Following the news, Alphabet’s shares rose 3.7%, while Apple saw a 1.6% uptick during afternoon trading.

Catching up in the AI race

Apple has been noticeably slower than rivals like Google and Samsung in rolling out generative AI features across its devices. Competitors have already launched AI-powered assistants capable of handling more nuanced interactions and performing complex tasks using real-time contextual data.

A long-anticipated overhaul of Siri—originally planned for earlier this year—was delayed due to engineering challenges, pushing its release to next year. The updated version is expected to allow for more natural voice interactions and deeper integration with apps and services.

Siri has long trailed Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant in terms of functionality and flexibility, particularly when handling multi-step commands. Apple has also held separate talks with AI firms OpenAI and Anthropic, reportedly considering ChatGPT and Claude as alternative engines for future versions of Siri.