The Information published a report about Apple's partnership with Google, which will have Gemini as the basis for its AI features, including the new Siri.
See also: Gemini-Powered Siri: What new features can we expect?
Yesterday's joint announcement revealed that Apple will rely on Gemini to power its AI features, but was stingy with technical details. The companies said that Apple's Gemini-based features "will continue to run on Apple devices and in Private Cloud Compute," ensuring that Google will not have access to user data.
The report highlights that Apple will be able to customize the version of the Gemini model independently. Apple can ask Google to modify aspects of how the Gemini model works, but it can also improve it itself to respond to queries in a way that aligns with Apple's preferences.
Additionally, the report addresses the question of how prominent Google branding will be in the experience. In the current prototype version of Apple’s Gemini-based system, AI responses don’t include any Google or Gemini branding. While the final experience may change, this aligns with a previous Bloomberg report, which suggested that Siri won’t be overloaded with Google services or Gemini features that already exist on Android devices.
Instead, Siri will be supported by a model capable of providing the AI features users expect, all within an Apple user interface.
See also: No, Google Gemini will not obtain data from your iPhone
Apple expects that the Gemini-powered Siri will improve its performance in world-knowledge-related responses, providing direct answers instead of just listing links. The report also says that Apple aims for the Gemini-powered Siri to enhance its ability to provide emotional support. Historically, Siri has struggled with emotional support queries, but the Gemini-powered version is expected to offer more comprehensive conversational responses, similar to those of ChatGPT and Gemini.
However, targeting emotional support can be dangerous, as there have been documented cases where vulnerable users have harmed themselves after interacting with chatbots. In many cases, these systems have failed to provide appropriate safety guidance or real-world assistance, sometimes leading to serious consequences.
The report doesn't specify how Gemini-powered Siri will handle such sensitive situations when they arise. Last August, Apple's software chief Craig Federighiaddressed issues related to the Siri revamp, explaining that the initial attempt to merge two different systems—one for processing current commands and another based on large language models—was problematic.
He noted that the hybrid architecture approach did not meet Apple's quality standards.
See also: Google introduces buy buttons in Gemini and AI search
While the report doesn't delve into this technical topic, it does say that common Siri tasks, such as setting timers, reminders, or sending specific text messages, will continue to be powered by technology stored on Apple devices.
