Why the Shift Matters
Siri has been a core part of Apple’s ecosystem since 2011 but has lagged behind newer AI assistants in understanding context and handling complex conversations. In 2024, Apple launched its “Apple Intelligence” initiative but stopped short of a full Siri overhaul.
Partnering with Google’s Gemini marks a turning point. Apple recognizes that developing cutting-edge large language models (LLMs) entirely in-house is both costly and time-consuming. By using a customized Gemini model, Apple can bring generative AI to Siri faster while maintaining its privacy ethos.
For more on this, see The Verge’s coverage: Apple is planning to use a custom version of Google Gemini for Apple Intelligence.
What We Know About the Deal
- According to Reuters, Apple is paying about $1 billion per year to license a custom version of Gemini tailored to Siri’s needs.
Read: Apple to use Google’s AI model to run new Siri, Bloomberg News reports. - The Gemini model will run on Apple’s Private Cloud Compute, meaning data stays within Apple’s infrastructure.
- Apple is developing two tracks for Siri: an in-house model called Linwood and an external model, Glenwood, powered by Gemini.
- While Google appears to be the frontrunner, Apple has also reportedly evaluated models from OpenAI and Anthropic.
How This Could Change Siri
A Gemini-powered Siri could finally deliver the intelligence and fluidity users have been expecting. Early reports suggest:
- More natural conversations: Siri will be able to handle multi-step queries and context-rich discussions.
- Smarter web answers: Expect more current and detailed responses, rather than static pre-scripted replies.
- Cross-device intelligence: Siri could manage tasks that span across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and HomePod seamlessly.
- Privacy maintained: Despite using Google’s model, Apple insists that all processing will occur on its own servers to protect user data.
TechRadar noted that this move could “bring Siri back into the AI race,” while sites like Gadgets360 suggest the upgrade could make Siri more like ChatGPT — but with Apple’s privacy-first polish.
Privacy, Infrastructure & Technical Backdrop
Apple’s Private Cloud Compute will serve as the foundation for this partnership. Unlike traditional cloud hosting, this setup ensures that Gemini operates on Apple-owned servers. The company claims this structure upholds its strict data privacy standards, a key differentiator from competitors.
This hybrid approach — combining on-device intelligence with secure cloud processing — acknowledges that modern AI models require massive computational resources. Users can expect larger context windows, richer understanding, and more multimodal capabilities, such as handling both voice and image inputs.
The Competitive Landscape
Apple’s move comes amid an AI assistant arms race:
- Google is pushing hard with Gemini across its ecosystem.
- Amazon is rebuilding Alexa with generative AI.
- OpenAI’s ChatGPT has set a new bar for conversational intelligence.
For Apple, revitalizing Siri isn’t optional — it’s essential. Analysts see this as a long-term strategic shift toward hybrid AI, rather than a stopgap measure. As Mobile World Live observed, this could be Apple’s biggest AI partnership since the introduction of the App Store.
Risks, Questions & What to Watch
There’s still much we don’t know:
- Official confirmation: Neither Apple nor Google has formally announced the partnership.
- Cost and sustainability: A billion dollars a year is substantial. Will this influence Apple’s pricing strategy?
- User perception: How will Apple users feel about a “Google-powered” Siri?
- Timeline reliability: Siri’s major updates have been delayed before; spring 2026 may shift.
- Integration challenge: Even the best model needs seamless UX and ecosystem harmony to succeed.
When to Expect the New Siri
Current reports indicate a spring 2026 launch, possibly coinciding with a refreshed HomePod lineup, new Apple TV, and the next wave of AI-enabled devices. However, Apple has been known to adjust timelines — as seen with the staggered rollout of Apple Intelligence in 2024.
Keep an eye on Apple’s WWDC 2026, where a first public demo of the new Siri is likely.
Where to Follow This Story
- Bloomberg’s Power On newsletter by Mark Gurman
- The Verge’s Apple Intelligence coverage
- MacRumors and TechRadar for feature breakdowns
- Reuters and CNBC for financial and business insights
Key Takeaways
- Apple’s partnership with Google for a Gemini-powered Siri signals a major strategic pivot.
- The deal blends Apple’s privacy principles with Google’s AI expertise.
- Siri could finally gain natural conversational skills and cross-device intelligence.
- Launch expected in 2026, but timelines may shift.
- Apple continues to develop its own models — this is a bridge, not a handover.
FAQs
Will Siri still process commands on-device?
Yes. Apple plans to keep basic Siri functions running on-device while cloud-based Gemini handles more complex reasoning.
Why is Apple partnering with Google instead of relying solely on Apple Intelligence?
Because building an advanced LLM from scratch is a multi-year, resource-intensive process. Gemini accelerates Apple’s timeline.
Does this compromise Apple’s privacy promises?
Apple says no — Gemini will run on its private servers, not Google’s, and data will remain encrypted and anonymized.
Will Siri become more like ChatGPT?
In capability, yes. Siri should be able to summarize, explain, and reason more effectively. But Apple will likely retain Siri’s distinct personality and interface.
When is this coming to users?
The latest reports point to spring 2026, though that could change based on development progress.