It’s now official: Apple has partnered with longtime collaborator Google to power key artificial intelligence features, including Siri, using Google Gemini technology.
In a joint statement, the companies said, “After careful evaluation, we determined that Google’s technology provides the most capable foundation for Apple Foundation Models, and we’re excited about the innovative new experiences it will unlock for our users.” The announcement confirms earlier reports that Apple was in talks with Google to integrate its AI systems.
While neither company has disclosed financial details, prior reports suggest Apple may be paying Google approximately $1 billion to access Google Gemini models and cloud infrastructure. Before finalising the deal, Apple reportedly tested AI solutions from rivals such as OpenAI and Anthropic.
The multi-year agreement will see Apple incorporate Google Gemini models and Google Cloud technology into future Apple foundation models. Importantly, the partnership is not exclusive, according to sources familiar with the arrangement. This marks a notable shift for Apple, a company historically committed to deep vertical integration across its hardware and software ecosystem.
Apple has faced growing public criticism for lagging behind competitors in artificial intelligence, particularly with Siri. However, the company has quietly made progress behind the scenes. In 2024, Apple introduced the first version of Apple Intelligence, bringing AI-powered features such as photo search enhancements and notification summaries to its operating systems.
Privacy remains a central pillar of Apple’s AI strategy. Much of its AI processing occurs on-device or through tightly controlled infrastructure, and Apple says these standards will continue under its collaboration with Google Gemini.
Despite these efforts, Apple’s AI approach has been viewed as understated—sometimes even invisible—lacking the dramatic appeal of platforms like ChatGPT or Gemini. Many users are still waiting for a major Siri overhaul.
Apple has delayed the launch of its “more personalised Siri” multiple times, but a company spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch that an upgraded version is expected later this year. Previous reports suggest the revamped Siri could arrive as early as spring.
The partnership also unfolds amid heightened scrutiny of Google. The search giant is currently facing several antitrust lawsuits, including one that directly examined its long-standing relationship with Apple.
In August 2024, a federal judge ruled that Google unlawfully maintained its online search monopoly by paying companies—including Apple—to set Google as the default search engine. Between 2021 and 2022 alone, Google reportedly paid Apple around $38 billion for default search placement.
In December 2025, Judge Amit Mehta issued final remedies in the case, prohibiting Google from entering into exclusive default agreements, such as its previous deal with Apple, unless such contracts end within one year.
