Apple Explores Gemini AI Partnership to Revamp Siri Amid Internal Shortcomings

Apple is in discussions to license Google's Gemini AI system for a major Siri overhaul, signaling a strategic pivot toward partner-driven AI development. The potential deal follows internal struggles to match competitors' AI capabilities, with a targeted 2026 launch for the upgraded voice assistant.

Alphabet shares surged 3% to record highs on the news, while Apple gained 1.5% as markets applauded the proactive move. The arrangement would require Google to adapt Gemini for Apple's private servers—a technical hurdle that underscores the complexity of cross-platform AI integration.

Bloomberg's October 2024 benchmark revealed Siri lagging behind ChatGPT by 25% in accuracy and 30% in response speed. Apple has simultaneously evaluated Anthropic and OpenAI models, suggesting a comprehensive reassessment of Cook's historically insular AI approach.