Apple’s Game-Changing Siri Update: Powered by Google AI

Apple is reportedly in talks with Google to utilize a custom version of Google’s Gemini model to enhance Siri. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple may pay Google around $1 billion annually for access to technology that can generate summaries and assist with planning tasks.

The custom Gemini model, with 1.2 trillion parameters, is expected to be a central component of a significant Siri update that Apple has been working on for some time. This new system is set to be deployed on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute servers, alongside the company’s existing systems.

Apple is said to be investing approximately $1 billion per year in this powerful AI model built by Google, which significantly surpasses the 150 billion parameters used in Apple Intelligence’s current cloud-based version. The collaboration with Google aims to enhance Siri’s capabilities in processing complex tasks and understanding context at a deeper level.

Internally known as Glenwood, this project is led by Mike Rockwell and Craig Federighi, who are working towards improving Siri’s core technology. The updated voice assistant, codenamed Linwood, is scheduled for release in the upcoming iOS 26.4.

Under the agreement, Google’s model will support Siri’s summarizer and planner features, allowing the assistant to comprehend information and make decisions. Apple’s own models will continue to handle certain functions and responses. The deal ensures that user data remains isolated from Google’s systems on Apple’s servers.

Despite the significant collaboration with Google, Apple is not expected to publicize the partnership to consumers, with Google acting as a silent technology provider. Siri’s enhancements are likely to be introduced without any Google branding.

While Apple is utilizing Google’s Gemini model for now, the company is actively developing its own cloud-based model with up to 1 trillion parameters. Apple aims to eventually replace Google’s system within Siri with its proprietary technology. The company continues to seek ways to enhance Siri without relying solely on external providers.

In addition to its collaboration with Google, Apple is also exploring opportunities to expand Siri in China. Due to the ban on Google services in the country, Apple plans to use its own models and collaborate with local companies like Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. and Baidu Inc. to tailor Siri’s features to meet Chinese government regulations.

Overall, Apple’s partnership with Google reflects the company’s commitment to advancing AI technology and enhancing Siri’s capabilities. While Apple is leveraging external tools for now, the company is actively working towards developing its own AI solutions to drive Siri’s growth in the long term.