Apple has confirmed that Google Gemini will power the next-generation version of Siri. The company says the upgrade will arrive later this year, bringing a smarter and more capable voice assistant to iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices.
The new Siri will rely on Google’s large language models instead of Apple’s own system alone. As a result, Apple expects better understanding, stronger reasoning, and more natural conversations. The company positions this as a major step in its artificial intelligence roadmap.
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Apple explains the decision
In a statement shared with CNBC, Apple said it chose Google after internal testing and evaluation.
“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 report clearly states that Google Gemini will directly power Siri. Apple believes Gemini’s larger model will make Siri more advanced than it would have been on Apple’s in-house technology alone.
What changes in Siri
Apple plans to introduce the redesigned Siri with iOS 26.4, expected to reach the public in March or April. The update focuses on what Apple calls “personal context,” which means Siri will better understand what is happening on your device and in your apps.
The assistant will read and connect information from Mail, Messages, and other apps. For example, a user can ask Siri about a family member’s flight or lunch plans based on existing emails and messages. Siri will also gain deeper control inside apps and better awareness of what appears on screen.
Apple first announced personalized Siri features at WWDC 2024. However, the company later delayed the rollout, saying it needed more time to meet its quality standards.
Apple said at the time, “It’s going to take us longer than we thought to deliver on these features and we anticipate rolling them out in the coming year.”
Now, by turning to Google Gemini, Apple signals a shift in strategy. Instead of relying only on its own models, it is using outside technology to speed up progress and deliver a stronger product.
The partnership
CNBC reported that the agreement is a multi-year partnership. Apple will use Google’s Gemini models and cloud technology to support future Apple Foundation Models.
Bloomberg had earlier noted that Apple and Google were already in talks about using a custom version of Gemini for Siri. This announcement confirms those reports and sets the direction for Apple’s AI features moving forward.
The next version of Siri aims to close the gap with other AI assistants and meet growing expectations from users. Apple has faced pressure to deliver a major AI upgrade after delaying the release and advertising features that were not yet ready.
With Google Gemini now at the core, Apple promises a more capable Siri that understands context, works more deeply across apps, and handles everyday requests with greater accuracy. The real test will come when iOS 26.4 reaches users and the new assistant moves from promise to practice.
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