Apple Resumes Talks with OpenAI for iPhone Integration and Explores Partnerships with Google and Other Providers for iOS 18 Features

Apple Inc. has resumed talks with OpenAI to integrate the startup’s technology into new features for the iPhone later this year. Discussions had stalled earlier this year, but renewed dialogue between the two companies is now underway as they discuss potential terms of an agreement.

Apple is also in talks with Google about licensing its Gemini chatbot technology. However, no final decisions have been made yet on which partners Apple will collaborate with, leaving the possibility of agreements with both OpenAI and Google or another provider entirely.

The upcoming iPhone operating system, iOS 18, is expected to introduce new features based on Apple’s large language model and a chatbot-like feature similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT. As Apple prepares for its Worldwide Developers Conference, it plans to showcase its AI software and services as more integrated and privacy-focused than competitors.

Cook has previously mentioned using OpenAI’s ChatGPT, but noted there were unresolved issues. By partnering with external companies like OpenAI, Apple aims to accelerate its chatbot development while mitigating potential risks associated with generative AI features. This approach allows Cook to be strategic in introducing new AI features to Apple’s platforms.