Summary:
1. Apple plans to use a custom version of Google’s Gemini model to upgrade Siri, potentially paying Google $1 billion yearly for access to the technology.
2. The Gemini model has 1.2 trillion parameters, a significant increase from Apple’s current cloud-based system, and will support Siri’s summarizer and planner features.
3. Apple aims to release the updated Siri next spring, with the model running on Apple’s servers while maintaining user data isolation from Google.
Article:
Apple is gearing up for a major overhaul of its virtual assistant Siri by tapping into Google’s powerful Gemini model, as reported by Bloomberg. The tech giant is reportedly set to invest around $1 billion annually to leverage Google’s cutting-edge technology, which boasts an impressive 1.2 trillion parameters, significantly surpassing Apple’s current cloud-based system.
This collaboration is expected to play a pivotal role in revamping Siri, a project that Apple has been diligently working on for years. The implementation of the Gemini model is anticipated to enhance Siri’s capabilities in processing complex tasks and grasping context at a deeper level, ultimately improving user experience.
The custom Gemini model will be integrated into Apple’s Private Cloud Compute servers, ensuring that user data remains secure and isolated from Google’s systems. While Google’s model will support Siri’s summarizer and planner features, Apple will continue to utilize its own models for certain functions and responses.
Apple’s internal team, led by Vision Pro headset creator Mike Rockwell and software chief Craig Federighi, is spearheading the initiative, internally known as Glenwood. The upgraded Siri, codenamed Linwood, is slated for release in iOS 26.4 next spring, although certain aspects of the plan may still evolve in the coming months.
In a bid to keep pace with advancements in AI, Apple is embracing external tools like Google’s Gemini model to enhance Siri’s performance. Despite the partnership, Apple remains committed to developing its own technology and plans to eventually replace Google’s system within Siri.
As Apple continues to explore ways to expand Siri’s capabilities, the company is also eyeing the Chinese market. In China, where Google services are banned, Apple intends to utilize its own models along with a content filter developed by Alibaba Group Holding Ltd to comply with government regulations.
In conclusion, Apple’s collaboration with Google underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing Siri’s functionality and staying competitive in the AI landscape. By leveraging the powerful Gemini model, Apple is poised to deliver a revamped Siri experience that promises improved performance and enhanced user satisfaction.
