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Key takeaways

Apple is exploring the possibility of using Google Gemini to revamp its voice assistant Siri.To fill the gaps in Siri and deliver delayed functionality, Apple is conducting internal tests.Discussions between Apple and Google are taking place against the backdrop of a potential antitrust investigation into Google’s dominant position in search.

Apple is exploring the possibility of using Google Gemini to revamp its voice assistant Siri. The move signals a potential shift toward outsourcing AI technology, as Apple seeks to catch up in the field of generative AI.

Previous talks with Anthropic and OpenAI about Claude and ChatGPT highlight Apple’s efforts to find a suitable solution for upgrading Siri. The planned upgrade, intended to enable more intuitive voice interactions and controls, was delayed due to technical challenges, resulting in a change of leadership within the Siri development team.

Internal tests

To fill the gaps in Siri and deliver delayed functionality, Apple is conducting internal tests with two versions: Linwood, powered by its own models, and Glenwood, which uses external technology. Although Anthropic was initially considered the favorite, financial concerns prompted Apple to broaden its search.

Apple’s software chief, Craig Federighi, has previously mentioned Google as a potential partner for integrating AI models into Apple’s framework, specifically citing Gemini’s advanced conversational capabilities. These discussions are separate from earlier ChatGPT integrations for general knowledge queries, underscoring Apple’s ongoing efforts to improve Siri’s functionality.

External collaboration

Discussions between Apple and Google are taking place against the backdrop of a potential antitrust investigation into Google’s dominant position in search. A ruling on Google’s alleged monopoly could impact Apple’s lucrative search deals, potentially forcing the company to consider other partnerships.

Despite the exploratory nature of the talks, Apple’s AI models group is facing internal challenges, including resignations and staff leaving in search of more lucrative opportunities. Some have proposed replacing all AI models outside Siri with third-party solutions, marking a departure from Apple’s traditional focus on in-house development for security and privacy reasons.

Apple acknowledges the need to excel in AI and is increasing its investments. While Cook said nothing about his specific plans during a recent earnings call, his statement indicates he is open to external collaboration.

ChatGPT

Apple has already integrated ChatGPT into iOS 26 for image generation and has abandoned an internal coding project in favor of ChatGPT and Claude. At the same time, the company continues to develop its own trillion-parameter model, although it is not yet ready for public use. This shows the company is determined to advance AI in the long term while also exploring pragmatic solutions for immediate improvement.

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