Google and Apple Near Deal to Bring Gemini AI to iPhones: What It Means for Users
In a significant step forward for AI-powered smartphones, Google CEO Sundar Pichai confirmed during the ongoing DOJ antitrust trial that Google is close to finalizing a deal with Apple to integrate its Gemini AI model into iPhones. The announcement, made on April 30, 2025, marks a major shift in Apple’s strategy to expand its AI capabilities, offering users more flexibility in how they interact with Siri and other smart features.
The Google-Apple AI Partnership Takes Shape
Pichai revealed that discussions with Apple CEO Tim Cook have advanced, with both companies aiming to finalize the agreement by mid-2025. If successful, iPhone users could see Gemini integrated into Apple Intelligence by the end of the year. This follows Apple’s existing partnership with OpenAI, which brought ChatGPT to iPhones in late 2024.
The integration means Siri may soon rely on Gemini for handling complex queries, similar to how it currently uses ChatGPT. Apple’s Senior VP of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi, hinted at this last June, emphasizing Apple’s goal of letting users choose between different AI models.
Why This Matters for iPhone Users
For everyday users, this means more options and potentially smarter responses from Siri. Imagine asking your iPhone a detailed question—instead of defaulting to one AI, Siri could prompt you to select between Gemini or ChatGPT based on your preference. Pichai noted that, like OpenAI’s integration, Siri will ask for permission before using Gemini to ensure transparency.
Evidence of the upcoming integration was found earlier this year in iOS 18.4 beta code, which referenced Google as an optional AI model. This suggests Apple is committed to a multi-model approach, giving users control over their AI experience rather than locking them into a single system.
The Bigger Picture: AI Competition and Antitrust Scrutiny
Pichai’s testimony didn’t just reveal tech news—it unfolded amid the DOJ’s high-profile antitrust case against Google. The DOJ’s lawyer, Veronica Onyema, questioned Pichai about the Apple-Gemini deal, likely probing whether such partnerships strengthen Google’s dominance in AI and search.
For consumers, the key takeaway is clear: AI on iPhones is becoming more versatile. With Gemini joining ChatGPT, Apple is positioning itself as a hub for cutting-edge AI, letting users decide which model works best for them.
What’s Next?
If the deal closes as expected, Gemini-powered features could roll out to iPhones in late 2025. The tech world will be watching how this collaboration shapes the future of mobile AI—and whether competitors like Microsoft or Meta respond with their own moves.
One thing is certain: the race to build the smartest smartphone is intensifying, and users stand to benefit the most. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
