Apple Integrates Google’s Gemini AI Model into Apple Intelligence

Apple is set to incorporate Google’s Gemini AI model into Apple Intelligence, joining OpenAI’s ChatGPT. A recent leak from the iOS 18.4 beta code indicates that Apple is broadening its support for third-party AI models within its ecosystem, aligning with its previous pledge to provide users with various AI model options.

Apple’s AI Strategy: Moving Beyond ChatGPT

Apple launched Apple Intelligence with the iOS 18.2 update last year, introducing AI-driven improvements for iPhones, iPads, and Macs. A standout feature was the incorporation of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which enabled Siri to direct inquiries to the chatbot for more sophisticated answers. At WWDC24, Craig Federighi of Apple indicated that the organisation was receptive to adding other AI models, including Google’s Gemini. The latest indications hint that this integration may occur sooner than anticipated.

Evidence of Gemini AI Integration in iOS 18.4 Beta

MacRumors analyst Aaron Perris identified backend code in the iOS 18.4 beta that includes mentions of both ‘Google’ and ‘OpenAI’ as third-party models for Apple Intelligence. This provides strong evidence that Gemini AI could serve as an alternative to ChatGPT within Apple’s AI ecosystem. Although the code does not specify a launch date for the integration, it signifies that Apple is actively pursuing the availability of Gemini for users.

Should the integration mimic the ChatGPT model, Gemini could operate as an AI assistant within Apple Intelligence, managing inquiries and aiding with various tasks. Nonetheless, due to Apple’s history of postponing AI feature launches, the timing of Gemini support’s arrival in the final iOS 18.4 version remains uncertain, with potential delays extending to a future update, possibly iOS 19.

iOS 18.4 Features

In addition to AI improvements, the iOS 18.4 beta introduces various features such as prioritised notifications, enhanced language support for Apple Intelligence, and new widgets. Additionally, Apple has confirmed that iPhone 15 Pro models will gain Visual Intelligence functionality through the Action Button and Control Centre toggle, a feature that was previously unavailable on those devices.

With the stable release of iOS 18.4 anticipated in April, Apple users may soon experience more AI-driven enhancements and increased options for selecting the AI model that best fits their requirements.