Apple has initiated discussions with Google regarding the integration of the Gemini artificial intelligence engine into the iPhone, as reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. This potential partnership signals a significant shift in the AI landscape, with Apple also exploring collaboration with OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT.
The ongoing negotiations come against the backdrop of the longstanding search partnership between Apple and Google. The latter pays substantial sums annually to have its search engine designated as the default option in Safari, Apple’s web browser. However, this proposed integration of Gemini into the iPhone raises questions about antitrust implications, especially given the existing scrutiny on the Apple-Google alliance.
iOS 18 is poised to introduce a plethora of new features leveraging Apple’s proprietary AI models. These enhancements will predominantly focus on on-device functionalities, including updated versions of Siri and AI integration across various native applications such as Messages, Apple Music, Keynote, and Pages.
Earlier reports hinted at Apple’s internal AI development efforts, notably with projects like Ajax and Apple GPT. Despite these initiatives, sources suggest that Apple’s technologies are still lagging behind competitors like Google. Consequently, a partnership to incorporate Gemini appears to be the most viable option for Apple at this juncture.
Gemini, however, isn’t without controversy, having been embroiled in a scandal related to inaccurate race-related queries. Despite this setback, the potential integration with Apple underscores the significant reach Gemini could achieve, potentially extending its capabilities to billions of iPhone users.
Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, has teased a forthcoming “big announcement on AI” in 2024, hinting at the company’s concerted efforts in this domain. While Cook has acknowledged the utility of models like ChatGPT, he also alluded to unresolved challenges. This impending announcement underscores Apple’s strategic commitment to AI advancement.
Furthermore, Gurman suggests that partnering with external AI providers like Google could mitigate Apple’s liability concerns. The specifics of the Apple-Google agreement, including branding and implementation, are yet to be finalized, indicating ongoing negotiations between the tech giants.
As Apple gears up for potential collaboration with Google on AI integration, speculation abounds regarding the impact this could have on the broader AI landscape and the regulatory scrutiny it may attract. With AI poised to play an increasingly integral role in consumer technology, the outcome of these discussions could shape the future trajectory of both companies.
Source : https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-03-18/apple-in-talks-to-license-google-gemini-for-iphone-ios-18-generative-ai-tools