Apple confirms Gemini-backed training for Apple Foundation Models, not a Siri replacement

Apple has officially confirmed a collaboration with Google on the development of Apple Intelligence, but the substance of the partnership is far more low-key than initial online reactions suggested. This is not a plan to replace Siri or weave Google Gemini into the iPhone for everyday use. The arrangement sits at the foundational layer of AI training and leaves the user experience untouched—more a pragmatic infrastructure play than a consumer-facing pivot.

The company said that future Apple Foundation Models will be trained using Gemini models and Google’s cloud infrastructure as a base. At the same time, Gemini itself won’t run on Apple devices and won’t become part of iOS. Apple Intelligence will continue to rely on Apple’s own technology, handling tasks either locally on the device or through Private Cloud Compute, with current privacy standards preserved.

According to available information, Apple weighed several alternative AI platforms before selecting Gemini as the most mature and scalable foundation for training large models. Rumor has it that Apple pays Google about one billion dollars a year for licensing and infrastructure access. It is also emphasized that Apple retains full control over how its AI systems are implemented, and that user data is not shared with Google during normal device operation.

The main public concern was that Siri might start running on Google technology or that personal information would flow to a third-party’s servers. Apple and Google separately clarified that this will not happen. Siri and Apple Intelligence will continue to rely solely on Apple Foundation Models and infrastructure under Apple’s control.

Within the industry, the tie-up is viewed as a temporary strategic step. Rumors suggest Apple is already developing its own trillion-parameter model, with a release expected closer to 2027. Even after that milestone, Gemini may remain useful as a benchmark and a second set of eyes during training—much like Apple once leaned on Google Maps before launching Apple Maps. For users, the picture remains straightforward: Apple Intelligence stays an Apple product, with privacy and deep ecosystem integration front and center.