Apple is reportedly in discussions with Google to incorporate the Gemini artificial intelligence engine into the iPhone, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Additionally, Apple has explored a potential partnership with OpenAI, the developer behind ChatGPT.
Partnership Dynamics
The collaboration between Apple and Google signifies an extension of their existing search partnership, where Google pays billions annually for its search engine to be the default on Apple’s Safari browser. This move not only expands Gemini’s reach to billions of potential users but also raises questions about Apple’s progress in developing its own AI alternatives, inviting potential antitrust scrutiny.
iOS 18 Features
While Apple is gearing up to introduce new AI-driven features in iOS 18, they primarily focus on on-device capabilities rather than cloud-based services. These features encompass updated Siri functionalities and AI integration into various apps such as Messages, Apple Music, Keynote, and Pages.
Tech Developments and Challenges
Earlier reports indicated Apple’s internal testing of its large language model, codenamed Ajax, and a basic chatbot named Apple GPT. However, sources suggest that these technologies still lag behind competitors, making a partnership with established players like Google and OpenAI a more viable option.
Recent Controversies
Gemini faced criticism after generating racially biased queries, leading to Google CEO Sundar Pichai ordering the suspension of image generation. Despite this, discussions between Apple and Google continue, with the potential incorporation of Gemini into the iPhone software.
Future AI Announcement
Apple CEO Tim Cook has hinted at a significant AI announcement in 2024, emphasizing a thoughtful integration of new AI features into Apple’s platforms. Utilizing external AI features may also mitigate Apple’s liability concerns, as noted by Gurman’s sources.
Antitrust Implications and Negotiations
While the terms and implementation specifics of the potential agreement remain undisclosed, the collaboration between Apple and Google in the AI domain could invite further antitrust scrutiny, given their existing partnerships and dominant positions in the tech industry.
Apple’s upcoming product introduction event may shed more light on the direction of its AI strategy and potential partnerships, including the speculated integration of Gemini into the iPhone ecosystem.
Source : https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-03-18/apple-in-talks-to-license-google-gemini-for-iphone-ios-18-generative-ai-tools