Apple, a tech giant known for its proprietary technology, is reportedly partnering with rival Google to integrate a custom version of Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence model into its Siri voice assistant, signaling a significant shift in its AI strategy and an urgent push to compete in the generative AI landscape.
The collaboration aims to overhaul Siri, which has faced increasing user concerns over its limited capabilities and a history of delayed updates. Reports suggest the AI-enhanced Siri could launch as early as March or April of next year.
This timeline marks an acceleration from previous expectations that placed a revamped Siri launch as late as 2026 due to technical challenges. The urgency underscores Apple’s lagging position in the rapidly evolving field of generative AI compared to competitors.
Mark Gurman, in his “Power On” newsletter, revealed that the new Siri will “rely on Google’s Gemini model” to introduce advanced functionalities such as AI-powered web search. Apple is reportedly paying Google to develop this customized Gemini model.
The custom AI will run on Apple’s private cloud servers, indicating an effort to maintain some control over user data and prevent the full integration of Google services into Apple’s ecosystem.
However, the move raises questions about how Apple users will perceive an AI assistant powered by a rival company’s technology. Industry observers wonder if the partnership can reverse “years of damage to the Siri brand.”
Apple had previously been in discussions with other AI developers, including Anthropic, to use its Claude models for Siri. The company ultimately chose Google’s AI models, reportedly due to a long-standing relationship and existing research agreement between the two tech giants.
Neither Apple nor Google is expected to comment publicly on the partnership, according to reports.
Despite strong global sales of its iPhones, Apple’s devices are seen by many as falling behind Android competitors in offering integrated, cutting-edge AI features.
The refreshed Siri launch may coincide with Apple’s introduction of new smart display devices. These displays are expected to be available in versions with integrated speakers and for wall mounting.
Apple also plans to announce broader updates to its operating systems and “Apple Intelligence” at its Worldwide Developers Conference in June 2026.