Apple Developing Smarter Siri Powered by Google Gemini
December 31, 2025
Apple is working on a more advanced version of Siri, set to be powered by Google's latest AI model, Gemini, according to Bloomberg. The tech giant will reportedly pay approximately $1 billion annually to utilize this cutting-edge 1.2 trillion parameter AI developed by Google.
What Are Parameters in AI Models?
Parameters are the core elements that determine how an AI understands and responds to queries. Generally, more parameters mean a more capable and nuanced model, although factors like architecture and training also play crucial roles. Bloomberg indicates that Google's Gemini "dwarfs" Apple's current language models in parameter count.
Current Versus Future Capabilities
Currently, Apple’s cloud-based AI employs around 150 billion parameters, but detailed metrics for Apple's upcoming models remain undisclosed. The new Google Gemini model, which will be used for functions like summarizing, multi-step task planning, and some Siri features, will operate on Apple’s private cloud servers, ensuring Google does not access Apple data.
Gemini's Architecture and Use
Gemini utilizes a Mixture-of-Experts architecture, activating only a subset of its total parameters per query. This allows for vast computational power without significant processing costs. Apple considered various AI models, including those from OpenAI and Anthropic, but opted for Gemini mainly due to cost considerations and existing partnership terms, as Google currently pays Apple around $20 billion annually for search engine dominance on Apple devices.
Transition to In-House Models
Though Google’s AI will bolster Siri in the near term, Apple is committed to developing its own AI models. The company is already working on a 1 trillion parameter cloud-based model expected to be ready around 2026. While no official details about these models have been publicized, Apple aims to eventually transition away from Google-powered AI.
Expected Siri Enhancements
A revamped Siri, integrated with the smarter Apple Intelligence, is slated for release with iOS 26.4 in spring 2026. This new version will handle more complex queries and execute multi-step tasks more effectively, bringing it closer in functionality to chatbots like ChatGPT and Claude, though Apple does not plan to launch a dedicated chatbot app.
Future of Apple AI
Despite optimistic plans, Apple’s AI development has experienced delays, notably postponing an update to Siri initially scheduled for iOS 18. The company overhauled Siri’s architecture to address deficiencies and now expects the enhanced Siri to be part of an upcoming software update in 2026.
Stay tuned for more updates on Apple’s evolving AI and software innovations.