Apple eyes Google's Gemini tech for iPhone AI boost
Apple discusses utilizing Google's Gemini technology to enhance iPhone AI capabilities
Apple is in talks to integrate Google's Gemini artificial intelligence (AI) engine into the iPhone, according to media reports Monday.
Apple also recently held discussions with Microsoft-backed OpenAI and has considered using its model, Bloomberg News said.
Apple is preparing new capabilities for its upcoming iPhone iOS 18 based on its homegrown AI models. Still, the report said it is seeking a partner to power generative AI features, including functions for creating images and writing essays based on simple prompts.
Bloomberg said the two parties have not decided the terms or branding of an AI agreement or finalized how it would be implemented. He added that any deal would likely be announced in June when Apple plans to hold its annual Worldwide Developers Conference.
Apple, Google, and OpenAI did not immediately respond to a Reuters request to comment outside business hours.
Apple has been slower in rolling out generative AI, which can generate human-like responses to written prompts, than rivals Microsoft and Google, which weave it into products.
Last month, Apple CEO Tim Cook said the company plans to disclose more about using generative AI later this year and is investing "significantly" in the area.
Apple and Google already have a deal that makes Google the default search engine on Apple's Safari web browser.
However, the deal has been under regulatory scrutiny. The United States and its state allies contend that Google unlawfully stifled competition by paying billions of dollars to Apple and other business partners to ensure its search engine would be the default on most phones and web browsers.
Google partnered with Samsung in January to deploy multiple generative AI technology products in the South Korean Galaxy S24 smartphone series.
Source: Reuters
