Google and Apple in Talks for AI Licensing Deal, Says Pichai

Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai revealed during an antitrust trial that Google is in discussions with Apple for a licensing agreement involving its Gemini AI engine. The deal is expected to bring Gemini AI to iPhones by the end of 2025. Google’s Gemini is a competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and the move comes amid growing competition in the generative AI space. Apple has faced criticism for its slow progress in integrating AI into its Siri assistant, but it has already rolled out some AI features under the ‘Apple Intelligence’ brand, with mixed results. The licensing agreement with Google could help Apple upgrade its AI offerings, while Google’s business is increasingly driven by the demand for advanced AI models. Despite the market’s volatility, where Google’s stock dipped and Apple’s stock rose, investors are keeping a close eye on both companies as they navigate the evolving AI landscape. At the same time, Google is facing ongoing antitrust issues, with the Department of Justice seeking penalties for allegedly maintaining a monopoly in the search market. Pichai’s comments on the licensing deal with Apple were made in the context of a broader trial that could have significant implications for the tech giant’s future operations.