Google has confirmed that it will not gain access to Apple user data as part of its new agreement to integrate Gemini AI technology into Siri. The clarification comes amid growing public discussion around Apple Intelligence and concerns that Apple may be handing sensitive user information to external AI providers. Instead, both companies emphasize that privacy safeguards remain firmly in place.
The partnership allows Siri to use Gemini technology to support future Apple Intelligence features, including a more personalized assistant experience expected later this year. However, Google says all processing will operate under Apple’s Private Cloud Compute framework and on-device systems, meaning requests are handled according to Apple’s existing privacy standards. As a result, Google will not collect, store, or use Apple user data for training or advertising.
Google’s statement closely mirrors Apple’s own messaging, reinforcing that Apple Intelligence continues to run primarily on Apple hardware and controlled cloud infrastructure. This approach resembles how Siri already works with ChatGPT, where requests can be routed externally without exposing user data to third-party model training. The companies say this design ensures users benefit from advanced AI features without compromising trust.
References to Gemini integration first surfaced in early 2025 through iOS code discoveries, fueling speculation about a broader collaboration. Reports also suggested Apple could pay Google up to $1 billion annually for access to Gemini, though neither company has confirmed financial terms. Details on how Gemini will integrate with iOS 26 also remain undisclosed.
The timing of the announcement appears strategic. Apple is preparing for a major Siri overhaul in 2026, while regulatory pressure around Google’s search deal with Apple has eased. In 2025, scrutiny from the U.S. Department of Justice highlighted Google’s multibillion-dollar payments to remain the default search engine on iPhones. With that case resolved, both companies now face fewer legal risks in expanding their AI partnership.
Even so, questions remain about how visible Gemini-powered features will be to users and what level of customization Siri will ultimately offer. What is clear is that Apple and Google are keen to reassure users and regulators alike that privacy remains central to the deal, even as AI capabilities expand.
