In a move that could reshape voice AI, Apple is poised to license Google’s Gemini model, boasting 1.2 trillion parameters, to power a revamp of Siri. Bloomberg News reports that Apple will pay approximately $1 billion annually for access to this cutting-edge technology.
Siri has often trailed behind Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant when tackling complex, multi-step requests and working across third-party apps. By leveraging Gemini as a stopgap until its in-house AI systems are ready, Apple hopes to bridge that gap and deliver a more natural, conversational experience for iPhone users worldwide.
Originally delayed until 2026, Siri’s AI upgrades faced setbacks within Apple’s ranks. Recent leadership changes—including Mike Rockwell stepping in to lead the Siri team after CEO Tim Cook reassessed priorities—underscore the urgency of reviving Apple’s AI ambitions.
The partnership specifically avoids integrating Google’s AI search across Apple’s platforms. Instead, it focuses on using the Gemini model under the hood to enhance Siri’s understanding, context awareness, and ability to handle layered commands—areas where Apple’s current systems are dwarfed by Gemini’s 1.2 trillion-parameter design.
Industry experts say this collaboration could signal a shift in how tech giants approach AI assistant development. With rivals already embedding advanced AI—Google rolled out Gemini-powered features last year and Amazon overhauled Alexa earlier this year—the race is on to define the next generation of digital helpers.
For global travelers, entrepreneurs, and everyday users, a smarter Siri could mean smoother hands-free navigation, more intuitive business support, and richer interactions across apps and devices. This partnership marks a critical step in Apple’s AI journey and sets the tone for the future of voice-driven innovation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
