Apple is reportedly finalizing a $1 billion annual deal with Google to integrate its Gemini AI model into Siri, marking a strategic shift as the tech giant races to modernize its voice assistant. The partnership, first reported by Bloomberg, would leverage Google’s 1.2 trillion-parameter AI system – a significant upgrade over Apple’s current capabilities – to handle complex user requests while Apple develops its own long-term solution.
The move comes amid growing pressure on Apple to enhance Siri’s functionality, which has lagged behind rivals like Amazon’s Alexa and Google Assistant in processing multi-step queries and third-party app integration. While the Gemini integration won’t bring Google’s search AI to iOS, it provides an interim solution as Apple works to resolve internal development challenges that delayed its AI roadmap to 2026.
Industry analysts note the deal reflects intensifying competition in voice AI, with Amazon recently overhauling Alexa and Google embedding Gemini across its products. Apple’s executive reshuffle in March, which saw AI leadership changes under CEO Tim Cook, underscores the company’s urgency to regain momentum in artificial intelligence innovation.
