Upcoming iPhones may tap into the artificial intelligence abilities of Google’s recently launched AI model, Google’s Gemini.
According to a Bloomberg article posted on Monday, Apple’s upcoming iPhones may use Google’s Gemini AI models.
According to sources who are aware of the situation, Apple is in conversation with Google about a possible authorization agreement. Google’s Gemini AI models may power some of the iPhone’s generative AI features, such as academic writing and image creation when requested. Meanwhile, Apple’s AI models, which are purportedly under development, would prioritize on-device functionality.
Apple and Google did not immediately return calls for comment.
Google’s renamed chatbot introduces itself.
This announcement comes as rival phone manufacturers strive to introduce generative AI technologies on their top devices. Counterpoint Research predicts that more than 100 million generative AI devices will be shipped by 2024. Phone manufacturers are scrambling to capitalize on generation AI fever, which OpenAI sparked in late 2022 with its buzzy chatbot, ChatGPT.
The most notable addition to Samsung’s Galaxy S24 series, which debuted in January, is Galaxy AI, a catch-all phrase for a suite of new capabilities driven by generative AI. Galaxy AI is powered by Google’s AI models, notably Gemini Pro. Google’s flagship phone, the Pixel 8 Pro, is now running on Gemini Nano. Gemini Nano drives features such as the ability to summarise voice-recorded conversations and propose message replies in WhatsApp using Google’s Gboard.
However, Gemini, like other generative AI models, remains a work in progress. Gemini has faced fire for creating historically inaccurate photos of individuals, prompting Google to stop a new image production tool. The fiasco serves as a reminder that generative AI is not always reliable as a source of information.
If the transaction goes through, it may imply that Apple isn’t as far along with its generative AI drive as some would like. According to Bloomberg, Apple has already discussed working with OpenAI, the startup behind ChatGPT.
When it comes to developing technologies, Apple often takes a wait-and-see attitude. For example, Apple is the only major phone manufacturer that has refrained from releasing a foldable phone. However, with a rapidly emerging area like AI, some worry Apple will slip behind.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra demonstrates the new Circle to Search feature.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra displays the new Circle to Search feature, which is one of Samsung’s most popular AI-powered features.
Until last year, Apple was prominently absent from the generative AI craze that has engulfed Big Tech. However, on a February results call, CEO Tim Cook stated that he saw “a huge opportunity for Apple with generation AI and AI.” On the call, Cook stated that Apple “has some things that we’re incredibly excited about that we’ll be having conversations about later this year.”
Apple has been working on its huge language model throughout this time last year, according to Bloomberg. However, the underlying AI model, nicknamed Ajax, lags behind its competitors. This could inspire Apple to form partnerships with businesses like Google and OpenAI, which have more powerful AI algorithms.
Apple’s next mobile operating system, known as iOS 18, is largely slated to be released in June, and it will most likely include new generative AI features. It’s unclear whether those AI functions are powered by Google, OpenAI, or Apple.
