Apple confirms collaboration with Google for new Siri

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Apple has officially confirmed that Google's Gemini AI models will power new features for Siri and Apple Intelligence. This ends months of speculation surrounding Apple's AI strategy. The decision clearly demonstrates that Apple is relying on external technology to enhance its own artificial intelligence systems.

Since Apple's announcement of Intelligence at WWDC 2024, Siri has been the main focus. Many of the presented AI features have already been implemented, but the revamped version of Siri was slow in coming. Reports of technical hurdles, delays, and potential partnerships dominated the news. Now it's confirmed that Apple and Google are collaborating long-term, and Gemini will play a central role.

Apple confirms Gemini as the technological basis

In a statement to CNBC, Apple confirmed its collaboration with Google. The statement said that after careful evaluation, Google's technology was deemed the most powerful foundation for Apple Foundation Models. Apple expects this to lead to new and innovative user experiences for its products.

According to CNBC, the agreement is a multi-year partnership. Apple will use Google's Gemini models and associated cloud technology for future versions of its own Apple Foundation models. Neither company has disclosed specific technical details or contract terms.

Siri and Apple Intelligence timeline

Apple itself hasn't given an exact timeframe for the rollout of the new Siri and Apple Intelligence features. However, CNBC reports that the new features should be available sometime this year. This brings the release closer after previous delays.

Back in May of last year, Apple stated that implementing the announced Siri features was taking longer than originally planned. The deep system integration and the high demands on data privacy and reliability were the main reasons for the extended development process.

Apple Intelligence and the new Siri

At WWDC 2024, Apple unveiled the Apple Intelligence ecosystem. This includes features such as Writing Tools, Image Playground, Genmoji, and other AI-based tools. A key component of this ecosystem is a fundamentally redesigned version of Siri.

The new Siri is designed to be significantly more context-aware. Planned features include personalized context, expanded in-app actions, and improved screen awareness. While most of Apple's intelligence features have already been rolled out, the new Siri has yet to appear. The integration of Google Gemini is now considered a crucial step towards implementing these features.

Financial dimension and technical background

The official confirmation follows extensive reports from Bloomberg. According to Bloomberg, Apple will pay Google around one billion US dollars per year for access to the Gemini models. It was also reported that Apple intends to use an AI model with approximately 1.2 trillion parameters to power the new version of Siri.

A combined approach is expected. Google will provide selected Apple intelligence features, while Apple will continue to use its own AI models for other areas. Technical and financial details of this division have not yet been officially confirmed.

Apple strengthens Siri and Apple Intelligence through external AI

With the confirmation of the Gemini partnership, Apple is making clear the importance it places on artificial intelligence for the company's future. The collaboration with Google is intended to help make Siri more powerful and practical for everyday use, without completely relinquishing control over its own ecosystem. Even though many details remain to be seen, it's clear that this decision marks an important step for Apple in catching up in the AI race and further expanding Apple Intelligence. (Image: Mojahid_Mottakin / DepositPhotos.com)