Apple's partnership with Google Gemini accelerates Siri's AI capabilities but won't eliminate initial glitches and inaccuracies inherent in large language models.
In just one week, expectations for Apple's new Siri have transformed dramatically. Instead of waiting years for Apple to independently develop competitive AI capabilities, the Google Gemini partnership means Apple can leverage Google's advanced models. While this accelerates Siri's evolution, significant glitches and inaccuracies will likely persist when the new Siri launches.
From vaporware to tangible technology
Until recently, prominent Apple commentator John Gruber described the promised Siri upgrades as "vaporware"—features Apple marketed but couldn't demonstrate. This changed when Apple confirmed its partnership with Google to integrate Gemini models on Apple's servers. Google's Gemini has demonstrated capabilities rivaling OpenAI's ChatGPT, with some performance advantages.
The development accelerated further when Google released Gemini Personal Intelligence in beta. This provides a functional preview of what Apple's Siri will offer, as both systems share foundational architecture.
Gemini as Siri's blueprint
Google's Personal Intelligence demonstrates exactly what Apple will implement: AI that retrieves specific details from your apps to customize responses. Where Google accesses Gmail, Photos, and YouTube history, Apple's version will integrate with Mail, Calendar, Photos, and Notes. The core functionality remains identical.
The glitch reality check
Despite the technological leap, Google explicitly warns beta testers about ongoing issues with Gemini Personal Intelligence:
- Inaccurate responses: The model still makes factual errors
- Over-personalization: Incorrectly connecting unrelated topics (e.g., assuming golf enthusiasm because you attended tournaments)
- Relationship nuance failures: Struggling with context around life changes like divorces
- Hallucinations: Inventing information that seems plausible but isn't real
Google acknowledges these issues aren't fully resolved, stating they've "minimized mistakes" but "haven't eliminated them." Users must actively correct errors via thumbs-down feedback. This reality applies directly to Apple's implementation since both use similar underlying models.
Pragmatic expectations
The partnership accelerates Siri's development timeline but doesn't bypass the inherent challenges of large language models. Early Siri users should anticipate:
- Contextual misunderstandings requiring manual correction
- Occasional factual inaccuracies in responses
- Awkward personalization based on misinterpreted data patterns
- The need for explicit feedback to train the system
These limitations represent the current state of AI technology—no company, including Apple with Google's assistance, has solved them completely. While long-term potential remains exciting, initial releases will showcase both capabilities and limitations.
The road ahead
The new Siri represents significant progress from its current state, but expectations should remain grounded. Google's transparent documentation about Gemini's limitations provides valuable insight into what Apple users will experience. As with all generative AI systems, refinement comes through real-world usage and continuous feedback.
Poll: How optimistic do you now feel about the new Siri?
- Very – I think it will be great from day one
- Fairly – I expect bugs at first but rapid improvement
- Mildly – I think it will be a long road
- Not at all – I'll believe it when I see it
Share your perspective in the comments.
Ben Lovejoy is a British technology writer and EU Editor for 9to5Mac, known for op-eds exploring long-term Apple product experiences. He also writes fiction, including technothriller novels and science fiction shorts.
Favorite gear: Dell 49-inch curved monitor
Comments
Please log in or register to join the discussion