Google is reportedly close to finalizing a deal with Apple to integrate its Gemini AI into iPhones, a move that could significantly expand AI capabilities on Apple devices.
During the ongoing search monopoly trial, Google CEO Sundar Pichai confirmed that the partnership is expected to be struck by mid-2025, with rollout plans set for later in the year.
This integration would allow Apple’s Siri to leverage Gemini to handle more complex queries, similar to Apple’s current collaboration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Apple’s senior VP Craig Federighi had previously hinted at such plans during the Apple Intelligence announcement, stating, “We want to enable users ultimately to choose the models they want, maybe Google Gemini in the future.”
The confirmation came in response to questions by DOJ lawyer Veronica Onyema. Pichai also revealed that he had met with Apple CEO Tim Cook to discuss AI development strategies and Gemini’s potential distribution. “He [Cook] was trying to understand our plans for how we’re evolving AI technologies,” said Pichai, noting that Apple plans to support more third-party AI models within its ecosystem.
Hints of this integration surfaced earlier in February, when iOS 18.4 beta code included references to Google as an Apple Intelligence model option. With Siri already using ChatGPT to handle advanced tasks like photo analysis and image generation, Gemini could offer similar or expanded functionality once integrated.
