Apple taps Google Gemini to power an updated Siri experience

Updated on January 18, 2026 4 minutes read

Photorealistic smartphone on a desk beside a laptop, showing an abstract voice assistant waveform and AI nodes, illustrating a Gemini-powered Siri update.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Apple and Google announce about Gemini and Siri?

Apple and Google said on 12 January 2026 that the next generation of Apple Foundation Models will be based on Google’s Gemini models and cloud technology, with a more personalized Siri planned for 2026. Apple also said Apple Intelligence will continue to run on-device and via Private Cloud Compute.

Will Siri still be able to use ChatGPT?

Yes, at least for now. Reuters reported on 11 December 2024 that Apple began integrating ChatGPT into its devices, and Reuters’ 12 January 2026 reporting said Apple indicated there were no major changes to that ChatGPT integration at the time of the Gemini announcement.

What is Private Cloud Compute, and why does it matter?

Private Cloud Compute is Apple’s approach for handling more complex AI requests on Apple silicon servers while aiming to preserve privacy protections. It matters because it’s how Apple positions cloud-scale model capabilities without fully shifting user data handling to third-party services.

How should iOS developers prepare for a more capable Siri?

Focus on exposing key actions cleanly through App Intents and Shortcuts, with safe defaults and clear parameters. Treat model-generated text as untrusted input, and build a small evaluation suite of real prompts to catch regressions as OS updates roll out.

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