Report: Apple Asks Google to Run Siri on Its Servers

Apple is exploring using Google's infrastructure to power a future version of Siri, specifically the Gemini-based version. Currently, complex AI queries are handled by Apple's Private Cloud Compute, which uses Apple silicon but has low average usage. Apple's historical reluctance to invest heavily in cloud infrastructure has resulted in capacity issues and the departure of cloud experts. The company's focus on hardware and consumer features has overshadowed its cloud infrastructure needs. Internal AI infrastructure was facing challenges, amplified by decommissioning of older servers and financial pressures. Apple initially restricted its AI engineers from using Google's cloud due to privacy worries. Google has since addressed these privacy concerns, opening the door for Apple to use their cloud infrastructure. Problems with Private Cloud Compute, including slower updates and chips not optimized for AI, have accelerated the need to seek external solutions. Apple aims to be ready for the anticipated increase in AI usage driven by the upgraded Siri later this year. The company hopes to have Gemini running on Google servers to meet this demand.