Apple-Google Deal: Will iPhone Users’ Data Be Shared?

Apple and Google have joined forces to make Siri smarter and more helpful through Google’s Gemini AI model. The update will allow Siri to provide direct answers as well as emotional support to users. Importantly, all data will remain secure on Apple’s private cloud, ensuring user privacy.

Gemini to Power Siri, But Apple Keeps Control
The partnership will enhance Siri’s responses and conversational abilities, making them more advanced than ever. Users, however, will not see any mention of Google or Gemini—the experience will feel entirely Apple-native. Google provides the base structure of the Gemini model, but Apple will fine-tune it according to its own standards, deciding how Siri responds, the tone it uses, and how formal or friendly it is. Apple can request changes from Google, but most training and improvements will be handled in-house. This means that the AI experience users receive is fully controlled by Apple, not Google.

User Data Will Not Reach Google
Crucially, all Gemini-powered AI features will operate on Apple devices or Apple’s private cloud. User data will not be shared with Google, maintaining Apple’s longstanding commitment to privacy. Reports indicate that the Gemini-based Siri prototype does not reference Google or Gemini anywhere, giving the impression of a fully Apple-owned AI system. Bloomberg has confirmed this, noting that Siri will not incorporate Google services or Android-like features.

Better Answers and Emotional Support
One of Siri’s biggest limitations has been its reliance on web links rather than providing direct answers. Gemini-powered Siri aims to resolve this, offering clear answers to general knowledge and scientific questions. The AI will also provide emotional support, improving responses for users who feel lonely or upset. Siri will not only show empathy but also, when necessary, guide users toward real-world help.

Integrating Old and New Siri Systems
Apple has historically struggled with Siri because it operated on two separate systems—one for basic tasks like setting reminders, timers, calls, and messages, and another for AI-based conversational tasks. Apple software chief Craig Federighi acknowledged last year that this dual-system setup has been a key reason for Siri’s underperformance. The new Gemini-based update aims to unify these systems for a seamless experience.

When Will Users See the Update?
Apple plans to roll out AI features in stages. Some updates, like remembering past conversations and offering suggestions based on calendar and traffic data, may arrive by March-April 2026. More advanced features are expected to be showcased at Apple’s annual developer conference in June 2026.

With this collaboration, Apple is poised to transform Siri from a basic assistant into a sophisticated AI companion—while keeping user data private and secure.