Apple May Partner with Google’s Gemini AI to Fix Siri’s Problems

Until recently, I thought my Siri being slow was a unique problem. This was particularly one of the many reasons I look forward to new iOS updates. Apparently, despite Apple’s growth over the years, they haven’t been able to crack how to upgrade Siri to compete with new AI assistants. Personally, I want my Siri to be able to do so much more than play me music, and with this possible collaboration between Google and Apple, we might be having that soon.

Anyways, Apple and Google Gemini was just one of many news stories in the ecosystem this week. As always, we have curated the best for you in case you were too busy during the week to catch up—we got you!

Apple might team up with Google to make Siri actually useful. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is seriously considering using Google’s Gemini AI to power a completely revamped version of Siri. This is quite interesting when you think about it. Apple and Google have been going at each other in the smartphone world for years, with Apple constantly taking jabs at Android and Google firing back about iOS being too closed off. But apparently, Apple’s frustration with Siri’s sluggish progress has gotten so bad that they are willing to swallow their pride and work with their biggest rival. The whole thing makes sense when you actually use Siri these days. While ChatGPT, Claude, and even Google Assistant have gotten scarily good at understanding what you’re asking and giving helpful responses, Siri still feels stuck in 2015. Ask it to do anything beyond setting a timer or playing music, and you are likely to get that familiar “I’m not sure I understand” response that makes you want to throw your phone across the room. Apple has apparently been shopping around for help. They have already had conversations with OpenAI and Anthropic about potentially using their technology to beef up Siri. The interesting twist with Google is that they’re reportedly willing to train a special version of Gemini that would actually run on Apple’s own servers, which would help with Apple’s obsession with keeping your data private. Don’t expect any announcements soon though. Apple is taking their time with this decision and won’t make up their mind for several more weeks. But the fact that they’re even considering this shows just how far behind they feel Siri has fallen.

Nvidia’s efforts to regain access to China’s lucrative AI market have hit another major roadblock. The chip manufacturer has reportedly instructed its suppliers to halt production of H20 AI chips, which were specifically designed to comply with Chinese market regulations. According to The Information, Beijing has been warning Chinese companies against using Nvidia’s H20 chips due to security concerns. Chinese officials worry these chips could contain hidden backdoors that might allow U.S. access to sensitive data and operations. Instead, the government is encouraging companies to source chips from domestic manufacturers, reinforcing China’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on American technology. The development is particularly significant given its timing. Just last month, Nvidia received approval to begin selling these China-specific chips after navigating months of regulatory uncertainty. The H20 represented Nvidia’s attempt at a compromise solution, offering sufficient AI processing power while meeting both U.S. export restrictions and Chinese regulatory requirements. Nvidia has responded to the security allegations, stating that cybersecurity remains a critical priority and emphasizing that their chips do not contain backdoors. The company characterizes the production halt as a supply chain adjustment to address current market conditions, though the move clearly reflects the challenging regulatory environment.

Google held its Made by Google event this week, showcasing a lineup of AI-powered devices ahead of Apple’s expected September announcement. The company positioned Gemini artificial intelligence as the central feature across its entire hardware portfolio. The Pixel 10 series received notable upgrades, with the standard model now including a telephoto lens previously exclusive to Pro versions. All devices run on Google’s new Tensor G5 processor, designed to enhance AI performance. New camera features include Camera Coach, which provides real-time photography tips through Gemini, and conversational photo editing that responds to natural language commands. Google introduced Pixelsnap, its magnetic accessory system similar to Apple’s MagSafe, along with compatible chargers and cases. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold features a larger cover display and Google’s first IP68 water resistance rating for a foldable device, though it remains priced at $1,799. The Pixel Watch 4 offers improved battery life and Gemini integration accessible through wrist gestures. Google also announced an AI-powered health coach for Fitbit, launching in October, which will create personalized workout routines and provide sleep guidance. Most significantly, Google revealed Gemini for Home, which will replace Google Assistant across Nest devices. This upgrade promises more sophisticated natural language processing and multi-step command handling, with early access beginning in October.

Spotify has launched a new feature that brings professional DJ-style mixing capabilities to its Premium subscribers. The custom transitions tool allows users to create seamless blends between tracks in their playlists, using preset options like fade, rise, and blend effects. The feature works by accessing any playlist and selecting “Mix” from the toolbar. Users can then customize transitions using waveform and beat data to identify optimal mixing points between songs. Spotify automatically displays each track’s key and beats per minute, making the tool accessible to users without professional audio mixing experience. The mixing interface includes controls for volume, EQ, and effects, allowing for more sophisticated audio adjustments. Users can save and share their mixed playlists on social media or invite other Premium subscribers to collaborate on projects. The mix function can be toggled on or off, allowing playlists to revert to traditional playback when desired. This update represents Spotify’s continued effort to give users greater control over their listening experience, building on recent additions like customizable Discover Weekly genres, voice commands for the AI DJ, and enhanced playlist management tools. The feature also positions Spotify to compete with Apple Music’s upcoming AutoMix capability, currently in beta testing. Spotify recommends the mixing feature works best with genres already designed for seamless transitions, such as house and techno music. Custom transitions are rolling out globally to Premium users who have updated their mobile apps, with some Asia-Pacific markets receiving the feature at a later date.

The Outskill AI Course is a six week AI program personalized to your skills and background to help you level up your career.