Apple taps Google’s Gemini to finally fix Siri: Here’s what you need to know

Apple has entered into a multi-year deal to use Google Gemini to power the Cupertino based tech giant's foundation models. Under the deal, these AI models will be used to power future Apple Intelligence features which will also include the personalized version of Siri which Apple had promised back at WWDC 2024 but failed to deliver since then.

“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 said in a joint statement

The company then went on to maintain te privacy aspect of Apple Intelligence noting that the AI features would continue to run on Apple devices and Private Cloud Compute.

The two companies did not give any further details about the terms of the agreement. However, a report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman in August had stated that Apple would pay around $1 billion a year for the 1.2 trillion parameter AI model that will power revamped Siri.

Notably, Apple had earlier partnered with OpenAI to use ChatGPT for powering the more complicated queries that Siri is unable to handle. With Gemini now taking the reins on revamped Siri, it's not clear what the future of that partnership would hold.

What revamped Siri promised?

Apple's promise for a smarter Siri was first expected to arrive with the iOS 18.4 update but the goalpost has since moved and he revamped Siri update is now expected to arrive with iOS 26.4 update in March this year. The Cupertino based tech giant had promised three big upgrades to Siri to take it on par with rivals like Gemini and ChatGPT.