Apple to Launch Gemini-Powered Siri in 2026

Apple has confirmed that its next-generation Siri, powered by Google’s Gemini technology, is scheduled to launch in 2026 [1]. The partnership, which involves a multi-year deal, aims to integrate advanced AI capabilities into Apple’s ecosystem while maintaining the company's existing privacy standards [1].

Key takeaways

• Apple entered a multi-year deal with Google to utilize Gemini models for its "Apple Foundation Models" [1].
• The updated Siri is expected to feature context-aware responses and improved integration with Apple apps like Mail, Photos, and Notes [1, 2].
• Apple plans to process AI tasks on its own servers to ensure user data remains secure and private [1].
• The new Siri is expected to be unveiled at WWDC in June 2026 [1].
• Apple reportedly worked to distill larger Gemini models into smaller versions capable of running directly on iPhone hardware [1].

A New Foundation for Siri

The collaboration marks a shift in Apple’s strategy, as the company previously appeared to be developing its own proprietary models for the revamped assistant [2]. After admitting in March 2025 that its internal development was taking longer than anticipated, Apple turned to Google’s technology to serve as the foundation for its AI features [1]. Industry reports suggest the deal is valued at approximately $1 billion per year [1].

While the specific terms of the agreement remain undisclosed, Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian confirmed that the collaboration is designed to bring personalized, context-aware intelligence to Apple users [1]. This new version of Siri is expected to move beyond simple voice queries, utilizing on-screen awareness and App Intent support to interact with personal data across a user's device [1]. Similar to features previewed in Google’s own "Gemini Personal Intelligence," the Apple implementation is expected to pull information from internal apps to provide customized responses [2].

Privacy and Future Integration

A primary concern for Apple throughout the development process has been data security. According to company statements, the Gemini models will be utilized on Apple-controlled servers, ensuring that Google does not gain access to individual user data [1]. This approach allows Apple to leverage the power of large-scale AI models while adhering to its established privacy protocols [2].

The potential for these features is significant, as Apple aims to enable Siri to perform complex tasks, such as automating workflows across multiple apps [1]. While Google recently announced its own "Gemini Intelligence" suite for Android devices—which includes features like AI-powered form filling and automated widget creation—it remains to be seen which of these capabilities will be adapted for the iOS environment [2, 3].

Why it matters

The 2026 launch represents a critical milestone for Apple as it attempts to modernize Siri and remain competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape [1]. By combining Google’s AI infrastructure with its own hardware and privacy-focused software, Apple is attempting to deliver a more functional, personalized assistant [1, 2]. The upcoming WWDC in June 2026 is widely considered the most likely venue for the official unveiling, serving as the platform where Apple will demonstrate how these models will function within the broader iOS ecosystem [1].