Apple Makes Strides in AI Development Amid Potential Partnership with Google

Apple is stepping up its efforts in artificial intelligence (AI), unveiling a new family of multimodal models named MM1, capable of interpreting and generating diverse data types simultaneously, such as text and images. This advancement signals Apple’s foray into the AI landscape, potentially impacting future products like iPhones, Macs, and the Siri voice assistant.

Expected to showcase several new AI features at its developer conference in June, Apple’s move underscores its commitment to leveraging AI technologies across its ecosystem. However, recent reports suggest that Apple may be considering a collaboration with Google, indicating that its AI endeavours might not be as advanced as desired.

According to Bloomberg, Apple is exploring the possibility of licensing Google’s Gemini AI engine, which includes chatbots and other AI tools, for integration into forthcoming iPhones and iOS 18 features. This partnership could position Apple competitively in the burgeoning AI race, aligning with CEO Tim Cook’s acknowledgement of the potential of generative AI.

While Apple has remained relatively silent about its AI vision, behind the scenes, the company has been bolstering its on-device generative AI capabilities and acquiring AI-focused companies like Canadian startup DarwinAI. With a dedicated Machine Learning Research division, Apple is evidently investing in advancing AI technologies.

Analysts suggest that while Apple’s internal AI efforts may lag behind competitors like OpenAI and Gemini, a potential collaboration with Google underscores the tech giant’s commitment to enhancing AI capabilities across its platform. This move could also benefit Google, granting access to Apple’s vast user base and potentially bringing Gemini’s AI technologies to nearly 2 billion Apple devices.

However, the proposed partnership faces scrutiny, as the ongoing search partnership between Apple and Google is under review by antitrust authorities. Despite these challenges, analysts from Wedbush Securities view the collaboration as mutually beneficial, providing Google with access to Apple’s ecosystem while empowering Apple to bolster its AI-powered iOS features.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, Apple’s strategic manoeuvres and potential partnerships signal its determination to remain competitive and innovative in the tech industry.