Beyond OpenAI: Apple Tests Google's Gemini in Latest iOS Beta
Apple Intelligence is currently powered primarily by OpenAI, but Apple has previously indicated that it plans to expand support for additional AI providers, allowing users to choose according to their preferences. In the latest iOS 18.4 beta, Apple has begun testing the integration of Google’s Gemini model. X user @Aaron discovered that the beta code includes options for both Google and OpenAI models. However, at this stage, users cannot directly access the Google Gemini model, as it remains in the early testing phase. Even upon the official release of iOS 18.4, Gemini model switching may not yet be available, as Apple is expected to take additional time for verification and integration with Google.
Apple's backend has revealed that the next 3rd party iOS-AI integration will be Google Gemini pic.twitter.com/0rIuJhT5Lj— Aaron (@aaronp613) February 21, 2025
Under Apple’s agreement with OpenAI, Apple does not pay AI providers for integration. Instead, once integrated into iPhones, users will be able to access premium AI features—such as ChatGPT Plus or Gemini Advanced—which will still require a separate subscription.
For AI providers, integration with iPhones represents a significant opportunity to increase subscription rates, particularly as it enables them to offer AI services to a global audience, thereby expanding their user base and revenue potential.
Recently, Google launched the Gemini 2.0 series, which includes a new inference model. Once optimized, it is expected to become available on Apple Intelligence. However, neither Google nor Apple has provided further details on this potential expansion.
Finally, Apple Intelligence has specific hardware requirements. Currently, only iPhone 15 Pro, the upcoming iPhone 16 series, and the iPhone 16e will support Apple Intelligence AI services, while older models will not have access to these features.
You must be logged in to post a comment.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works
