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In a potentially groundbreaking move, Apple Inc. is reportedly exploring the integration of Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence engine into the iPhone, according to a Bloomberg report. This development, if true, could significantly reshape the landscape of the AI industry.
The active discussions involve negotiations between the two tech giants to allow Apple to license Gemini, Google’s suite of generative AI models. The sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of the deliberations, indicated that Apple has also engaged in talks with OpenAI, exploring the possibility of leveraging its model.
Should an agreement be reached between Apple and Google, it would build upon their existing search partnership. For years, Google has paid Apple substantial sums to feature its search engine as the default option on Safari web browsers across Apple devices. However, the specifics regarding this potential AI agreement’s terms, branding, and implementation have yet to be finalized.
This partnership could grant Gemini access to a vast user base, given Apple’s extensive reach with over 2 billion active devices. Nonetheless, it may also indicate that Apple’s advancements in AI technology are not as advanced as previously anticipated, potentially drawing further scrutiny from antitrust regulators.
While Apple is preparing new AI capabilities for iOS 18, its forthcoming operating system update, the focus remains on features that operate on-device rather than cloud-based functions. As a result, Apple is seeking a partner to handle the heavier computational tasks associated with generative AI, such as image creation and essay writing based on simple prompts.
Representatives for both Apple and Google declined to comment on the matter, while OpenAI did not respond to requests for comment. Although Apple has been testing its large language model, codenamed Ajax, since early last year, sources suggest that its technology still lags behind competitors like Google, making a partnership appear more favorable.
A potential agreement with Apple would mark Google’s most significant partnership for Gemini to date, substantially boosting its AI endeavors. However, collaboration between the two tech giants will likely attract regulatory scrutiny, especially amid ongoing antitrust investigations into their existing search partnership.
While discussions between Apple and Google continue, any formal announcement is unlikely until Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June. Whether the negotiations will result in a final deal or whether Apple will opt for alternative generative AI providers like OpenAI or Anthropic remains uncertain. Nonetheless, Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has promised significant AI advancements this year, suggesting that transformative features are on the horizon for Apple’s platforms.
