Apple Inc. and Google are currently engaged in active negotiations that could lead to a groundbreaking agreement: integrating Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence (AI) engine into the iPhone. This potential collaboration promises to shake up the AI industry and enhance the capabilities of Apple’s iconic smartphone.
Apple is in talks to build Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence (AI) engine into the iPhone, Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the situation.
Apple also recently held discussions with the Microsoft-backed OpenAI and has considered using its model, the report added.
Apple and Google are in active negotiations to let the iPhone maker license Gemini to power some new features coming to the phone’s software this year, Bloomberg said.
Apple is preparing new capabilities as part of its upcoming iPhone iOS 18 based on its own homegrown AI models, but it is seeking a partner to power generative AI features, including functions for creating images and writing essays based on simple prompts, the report said.
The two parties have not decided the terms or branding of an AI agreement or finalised how it would be implemented, Bloomberg said, adding it was unlikely that any deal would be announced until June, when Apple plans to hold its annual Worldwide Developers Conference.
Both companies have an existing deal for Google to be the default search engine on Apple’s Safari web browser.
What Is Gemini?
Gemini is Google’s set of generative AI models designed to create and generate content based on simple prompts. These models can produce images, write essays, and perform other creative tasks. If this deal materializes, it would give Gemini access to billions of potential iPhone users.
The Search Partnership
This potential collaboration builds upon the existing search partnership between Apple and Google. For years, Google has paid Apple substantial sums to make its search engine the default option in the Safari web browser on iPhones and other devices. Now, discussions are underway to extend this partnership to AI capabilities.
The Implications
While the terms and branding of this AI agreement are yet to be finalized, the implications are significant:
Enhanced iPhone Features: If successful, Apple could license Gemini to power new features within the iPhone software. These features would leverage generative AI for tasks like creating images and writing essays.
Apple’s AI Efforts: Apple has been developing its own AI models, but they currently lag behind tools from Google and other competitors. By partnering with Google, Apple aims to bolster its AI capabilities and offer cutting-edge features to its users.
Antitrust Scrutiny: However, this collaboration could also attract antitrust scrutiny. Both Apple and Google are major players in the tech industry, and any significant partnership between them may raise regulatory questions.
The Road Ahead
Apple CEO Tim Cook has promised a major AI announcement this year, and this potential deal with Google’s Gemini could be just that. As iOS 18—the next version of the iPhone operating system—takes shape, users can look forward to exciting new features powered by AI.
In summary, the integration of Gemini into the iPhone would mark a significant milestone, combining the strengths of two tech giants and potentially revolutionizing how we interact with our smartphones.
Disclaimer: The details mentioned in this blog are based on ongoing negotiations and may be subject to change.
