Apple is currently in discussions with Google regarding the possibility of using the search giant’s generative artificial intelligence model known as Gemini for its upcoming iPhone. This move is part of Apple’s efforts to incorporate cutting-edge technology into its products and keep up with industry trends.
The talks are in the early stages, and the exact details of a potential deal have yet to be determined, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Apple has also explored discussions with other artificial intelligence companies as it seeks to leverage the capabilities of a large language model that can process vast amounts of data and generate text autonomously.
Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, has made commitments to investors to introduce new generative A.I. features this year. Apple’s competitors, Samsung and Google, have already integrated Gemini into their latest devices for video editing and audio summarization purposes.
Both Apple and Google declined to comment on the ongoing discussions. If a deal is reached, it would extend a long-standing partnership between the two tech giants that has been crucial to the success of Apple’s iPhone since its launch in 2007.
Apple’s delayed entry into the A.I. space has been costly, with Microsoft surpassing it this year as the world’s most valuable public company due to its aggressive pursuit of A.I. technology. Despite these setbacks, Apple’s vast user base and reputation for protecting user privacy make it an attractive partner for companies like Google looking to expand the reach of their A.I. capabilities.
A potential deal between Apple and Google could bring the Gemini model to iPhones worldwide, potentially positioning Google as a leader in generative A.I. technology. This partnership could pave the way for mainstream adoption of A.I. services and strengthen both companies’ positions in the competitive tech landscape.
However, such a deal could face regulatory scrutiny, especially considering the ongoing lawsuit by the Justice Department against Google for antitrust violations related to its agreement with Apple to be the default search engine on the iPhone. Judge Amit P. Mehta is expected to deliver a verdict on the case later this year.
