With Siri's next update now expected in May after some delay, it's possible the virtual assistant's bigger AI overhaul won't arrive until 2027. The update for a more radically modernized Siri update is facing setbacks, according to Bloomberg. Apple initially announced a revamped Siri at WWDC in June 2024, but that update has been delayed about 11 months due to bugs. That not only impacts the release of new Siri features in iOS 19 – expected at WWDC 2025 in June – but also creates a ripple effect on Apple's broader AI ambitions for iOS 20 and beyond.
According to the report, Siri in iOS 18 essentially has two separate systems. One is for classic Siri commands, such as setting timers and making calls, and another handles more advanced queries using user data. However, Apple Intelligence must rely on these two systems working together.
The plan to eventually merge them – under a system codenamed "LLM Siri" – is expected for iOS 19, likely debuting soon at WWDC with an official launch next spring. But sources told Bloomberg the next-generation Siri, which is expected to be much more conversational and intuitive, won't be ready until iOS 20 in 2027 at the earliest.
The company did not respond to a request for comment.
The delay could put Apple at a significant disadvantage as rivals like OpenAI and Google develop more advanced intelligent assistants. The ultimate goal remains to make Siri more conversational and capable of handling everyday tasks.
Meanwhile, the delays come as Apple prepares to launch Apple Intelligence in China. The company is reportedly partnering with local firms to bring the software to China later this year, adapting it to comply with government regulations that limit what information iPhone users can access.
At the same time, however, Dan Ives, senior analyst at Wedbush Securities, said because Apple is taking a different approach to AI than its competitors, the timing may not be as much of a setback as it appears.
"We view Apple playing a different game, as they are agnostic of LLM. It's about Apple Intelligence as a developer platform for AI," he said. "A new Siri design will happen, but not overnight."
He added: "Apple is a toll collector for AI on its App Store. We estimate 25% of the world will [eventually] access AI through an Apple device."
English (US) ·