Apple’s partnership with Google to integrate Google’s Gemini 3 AI model into Siri marks a important evolution for the digital assistant, promising enhanced capabilities for iPhone users. However, early reports indicate that the upgraded Siri experience won’t be universally available, mirroring the current hardware limitations of Apple Intelligence. While the integration aims to improve user privacy and performance through on-device processing, it appears only iPhone 15 Pro models and later-those equipped with at least 8GB of RAM and a powerful processor-will be compatible with the new, Gemini-powered Siri when iOS 26.4 launches in the coming weeks.
Google’s models will run locally on the iPhone, requiring the same specifications as Apple Intelligence to function
Following numerous reports, Apple and Google have announced a new agreement that will allow the tech giant to launch a new version of Siri powered by Google Gemini 3. While details surrounding the integration are emerging, one key question remains: will the update be available on all iPhone models? Early indications suggest the answer is likely no, mirroring the current limitations of Apple Intelligence.
Currently, Apple Intelligence is only compatible with iPhone 15 Pro models and beyond, and it doesn’t appear those requirements will change when Gemini takes the reins of the next-generation Siri. Apple has consistently prioritized delivering an optimal user experience, and that approach doesn’t seem to be shifting. This suggests that not all iPhones will be able to run the updated Siri.
Which iPhone models will be compatible with the new version of Siri?
It’s important to emphasize this point. Apple Intelligence requires 8 GB of RAM and a powerful processor, such as the A17 Pro chip or later, or chips from the M series. While Apple’s decision to exclude this hardware from the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus has drawn criticism, that’s now in the past. In a statement explaining the integration, Google noted that its models will continue to run both locally and on Apple’s servers.
This local execution, currently limited to the iPhone 15 Pro and newer, isn’t arbitrary. Processing more data on-device is intended to guarantee user privacy and enable tighter hardware-software integration for a superior experience. When Gemini integrates with Siri, the same principles will apply. Therefore, it’s logical to assume that, given the emphasis on local processing, the new Siri will only function on the same models compatible with Apple Intelligence.
These models handle millions of parameters, meaning local execution demands sufficient RAM and processing power to ensure a smooth experience. As a result, iPhones older than the iPhone 15 Pro are unlikely to support the new Siri version, expected to launch in the coming weeks with iOS 26.4. The integration of AI into mobile assistants is rapidly evolving, and hardware capabilities are proving to be a key constraint.
Relying solely on cloud processing isn’t a viable solution either. Local execution is crucial, as previously mentioned, for both privacy and performance, thanks to the processor, RAM, and other components found exclusively in the iPhone 15 Pro and later models. Consequently, when the new Siri becomes a reality, it appears only the same iPhones currently compatible with Apple Intelligence will be able to enjoy it.
