Siri’s anticipated AI enhancements are still projected to arrive next spring in iOS 26.4, and a fresh report this week regarding Google’s technology driving these features might be precisely what Apple and its users require.
## Siri’s AI enhancements are on the way with Google’s assistance
Apple’s failure to release the Siri upgrades it pledged in iOS 18 has been a source of embarrassment for the company. However, all indications suggest those improvements are forthcoming, accompanied by enhancements that exceed earlier commitments.
This week, Bloomberg disclosed that Apple is wrapping up an agreement with Google to utilize a tailored Google LLM to power the upcoming Siri features.
Mark Gurman writes:
> Apple Inc. plans to implement a 1.2 trillion parameter artificial intelligence model created by Alphabet Inc.’s Google to assist in the much-anticipated revamping of the Siri voice assistant, according to sources familiar with the situation.
The iPhone manufacturer is relying on Google’s support to reconstruct Siri’s foundational technology, paving the way for a new array of features next year. The Google model’s 1.2 trillion parameters—a representation of the AI software’s intricacy—would significantly surpass the capacity of Apple’s existing models.
Reactions to this announcement have varied widely. Some are enthusiastic, others are apprehensive about privacy concerns, and some view this agreement as another indication of Apple’s weaknesses in AI.
Personally, I lean toward positivity.
While it would be ideal for Apple to deliver the most advanced AI-driven Siri independently, that’s evidently not the current reality.
Yet by finalizing this agreement, Apple could provide itself and its users with precisely what is required.
## The new Siri will benefit both Apple and its users
Whether you concur with the viewpoint or not, there is a prevalent belief that Apple lags in AI.
Tim Cook defended his company’s AI stance last year with a typical Apple saying: “Not first, but best.”
It’s not uncommon for Apple to invest additional time refining and perfecting its creations while competitors release mediocre products.
Clearly, however, Apple Intelligence hasn’t achieved that “best” benchmark thus far.
By securing this deal with Google, Apple has afforded itself more time.
The company has faced considerable pressure to launch its long-promised AI version of Siri. With Google’s assistance, it will accomplish this in just a few months.
The new Siri launch will be advantageous for Apple, enabling it to continue developing its own in-house models with reduced stakes. It will also benefit users, who simply desire the finest Siri experience.
Most users probably won’t realize that Google’s technology is powering the new Siri features—and they likely wouldn’t mind if they did.
Apple’s agreement with Google reportedly guarantees the company adheres to its stringent privacy standards. Thus, from a user perspective, what will truly matter is Siri becoming stronger and more dependable than ever.
Apple can deliver its significant AI overhaul for Siri, fulfilling a long-held desire among users, while simultaneously continuing to enhance its internal LLMs. Everyone benefits.
