Apple is using Gemini to train Siri, but not in the way I expected

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Apple is not just using Gemini to power Siri. It is using it to learn from it.

According to a new report from The Information, Apple has deep access to Gemini inside its own data centers. That allows it to build smaller, efficient AI models that can run directly on devices like iPhone and Macs.

And the more I read about this approach, the more it feels like Apple is playing a very calculated long game.

Apple has “Complete Access” to Gemini

Apple reportedly has full access to Gemini within its own data centers. That means it is not just calling Google’s AI over the internet. It can actually study how it works.

Here is what Apple is doing with that access:

• Running complex queries through Gemini.
• Capturing both answers and reasoning steps.
• Using that data to train smaller internal models.

This process, known as distillation, is a big deal. It allows Apple to create lightweight AI models that behave like Gemini but require less compute.

From a product standpoint, this is exactly what Apple needs to bring advanced AI features directly onto devices.

Siri in iOS 27 is shifting toward on-device AI

This approach fits directly into Apple’s broader AI strategy. The company is building models that can:

• Run locally on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
• Deliver faster responses.
• Work even without an internet connection.

At the same time, Gemini will still handle more complex tasks, creating a hybrid system that balances performance and capability.

Apple is still tweaking Gemini to fit Siri

Apple is not using Gemini as-is. It is modifying the model to better match Siri’s tone and behavior. That includes how responses are structured and how information is delivered to users.

There are still challenges, though. Gemini has been optimized for chat and coding workflows, which do not always translate cleanly into a voice assistant experience. Apple is still refining that layer.

Siri is finally catching up to modern AI

If this rollout goes as planned, Siri will be able to:

• Answer more complex questions.
• Summarize information.
• Understand documents.
• Generate responses and stories.
• Help with tasks like bookings.

From my perspective, this is the first time Siri feels positioned as a true AI assistant rather than just a utility feature.

Do you prefer AI running on your device, or are you fine with cloud-based tools like ChatGPT and Gemini? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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