Apple has not yet announced a specific launch date for its forthcoming AI-enhanced Siri. According to new insights from reputable Apple insiders, it appears that the debut of this advanced Siri could be some time away. While this delay may initially seem frustrating, it might ultimately benefit both Apple and its users.
The gradual integration of Apple Intelligence began in October, but we have yet to observe any chatbot functionalities that rival those of competitors like Google’s Gemini. In a recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, it was suggested that the new Siri could debut alongside iOS 19, targeted for release at the WWDC 2025 event. However, this software is unlikely to launch until spring 2026, possibly as part of iOS 19.4. Gurman, who has earned a reputation for his reliable Apple analysis, compiled this information based on numerous internal and external sources.
The upcoming Siri is expected to have conversational capabilities akin to those found in Google’s Gemini Live. Dubbed “LLM Siri” in recent discussions, this enhanced version is still many months from release. In the meantime, Google recently unveiled new features that allow its AI to respond to users’ video and screen content in real time.
Does the Delay of AI Siri Matter to Apple Users?
While Apple is known for surprising its audience, the company faces a challenge in merging its outdated Siri framework with cutting-edge AI technology. According to Gurman, it may be 2027 before users can experience a truly conversational Siri. Furthermore, iOS 19 might not introduce any significant advancements in Apple’s AI capabilities. While this gives the impression that Apple is lagging behind in the AI race, it may also provide the company with an opportunity to innovate in ways that don’t rely heavily on energy-draining AI technology.
Recent updates to iOS have equipped all iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 users with Apple Intelligence features, which consume increasing amounts of device storage. A recent survey indicates that few users are purchasing the latest iPhones for the sake of Apple Intelligence. It’s possible that Apple might even consider integrating other AI models beyond just ChatGPT into its ecosystem. Recent code leaks suggest the potential for Gemini to be pre-installed on iPhones, although this integration is likely to be limited.
This news comes just days after Amazon launched its Alexa+ platform, which features a variety of AI models built into its Echo Show devices, enhanced by a new conversational interface. This innovation allows users to seamlessly order products, establish smart home routines, search for entertainment, and monitor security cameras using natural language. Although the demos were compelling, they were conducted within a closed Amazon environment, leaving us to question the real-world applications of these capabilities.
While Alexa+ may prove beneficial for Amazon device users—despite the privacy concerns associated with Amazon’s services—Apple has the advantage of making similar technologies available directly on iPhones, MacBooks, and devices like the Vision Pro. The challenge lies in convincing users to engage with a chatbot that can merely create calendar events from their emails.
All major tech firms are promoting AI-driven assistants, but the practical utility has often fallen short. Google’s Gemini, featured on the latest Samsung Galaxy S25 phones, can access emails and perform some cross-app actions, though it hasn’t significantly transformed user interaction with smartphones. Apple’s AI features so far have included strange functionalities like the Image Playground and quirky AI emojis, with the latest beta removing the humorously ineffective notification summaries.
Personally, I prefer that my iPhone evolves meaningfully in ways beyond just AI enhancements. While the forthcoming iPhone 17 Air might not be a necessity, improvements like enhanced refresh rates on base iPhone models would be appreciated. One significant issue is pricing; the iPhone 16e, designed for Apple Intelligence just like the regular iPhone 16, starts at $600 (approximately €564). Justifying this price point will become increasingly difficult if significant AI capabilities are delayed for months or even years.
FAQs About Apple’s AI Siri and Apple Intelligence
When will Apple launch the AI-enhanced Siri?
While there is no confirmed release date for the AI-enhanced Siri, reports suggest that it could debut in spring 2026, possibly as part of iOS 19.4 during the WWDC 2025 event.
How will the new Siri differ from the current version?
The new Siri is expected to feature advanced conversational capabilities similar to Google’s Gemini Live, providing a more interactive and user-friendly experience.
Will Apple competitors affect Siri’s functionality?
Competing platforms like Amazon’s Alexa+ and Google’s Gemini have introduced innovative features. Apple will need to integrate meaningful AI capabilities to remain competitive, potentially including support for AI models beyond its own.
Are Apple users interested in AI features?
Recent surveys indicate that many Apple users are not purchasing new devices specifically for Apple Intelligence features, suggesting a need for Apple to enhance the functionality and appeal of its AI integrations.
What is the expected price range for future iPhones?
The iPhone 16e starts at $600 (approximately €564), reflecting the pricing pressures Apple faces as it introduces AI features while keeping user expectations in mind.