Apple has confirmed it will release a new generation of Siri in 2026, marking a major software update and a renewed effort to compete in the artificial intelligence (AI) sector. The move follows a cautious approach by Apple compared to faster developments by competitors.
According to CNBC, Apple has maintained a conservative stance in AI, contrasting with the rapid expansion seen with conversational AI models like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. Since unveiling Apple Intelligence at the 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), the company has delayed significant AI product launches and updates. The new Siri, originally planned for 2025, was postponed to 2026, and AI announcements at WWDC 2025 were notably muted. Apple executives later told Tom's Guide that withholding the release timeline aimed to manage user expectations.
Apple faced early challenges with its AI products, including the temporary disabling of its notification summary feature due to accuracy issues. Market speculation suggests the upcoming Siri update may incorporate Google's Gemini model to address current capability limitations.
Industry analysts diverge in their assessment of Apple's AI approach. While some view the company's pace as lagging, others note Apple's emphasis on on-device AI and proprietary chip technology, which supports enhanced user privacy and sets Apple apart from rivals investing heavily in cloud-based AI.
At WWDC 2025, Apple introduced the Foundation Models framework, providing developers free access to Apple Intelligence's on-device large language models containing about 3 billion parameters. Quartz observed that this framework addresses key issues such as reducing API costs, minimizing internet dependency, and mitigating data privacy and liability risks. This strategy aims to encourage innovative AI applications that integrate deeply with the iPhone and the broader App Store ecosystem.
To bolster its AI efforts, Apple restructured its AI team by the end of last year and announced that its AI and machine learning chief, John Giannandrea, will retire in 2026. The company also hired Amar Subramanya, a former lead engineer on Google's Gemini project, signaling a strategic shift towards strengthening its AI capabilities ahead of the new Siri launch.
Article edited by Jack Wu
