Apple’s progress in integrating AI into its hardware has lagged behind its advancements in computing and wearables. While competitors like Google and Microsoft have deeply integrated generative AI tools, Siri remains significantly behind. A planned AI overhaul for Siri may extend well into 2027, according to a recent Bloomberg report.
The report suggests that Apple’s foundational and large language models, the core of its AI features, are reaching their limitations. This poses a challenge for Siri’s future and its promised AI enhancements. Currently, Siri operates on a dual-architecture system: one for legacy capabilities and another for generative AI features similar to ChatGPT and Google Gemini.
Pulling up Siri on lock screen of iPhone.
Apple reportedly plans to merge these two architectures into a single unit with the release of iOS 19. Following Apple’s typical timeline, this would likely be previewed at their developers conference in June and released with the iOS 19.4 update in Spring 2026.
However, the development process extends beyond that. Apple is currently working on an internal project called “LLM Siri” to combine the two digital assistant architectures. This project is reportedly behind schedule. Consequently, sources within Apple’s AI division believe a truly modernized, conversational Siri won’t be available until iOS 20 in 2027, according to the Bloomberg report. The report also indicates iOS 19 won’t include significant enhancements to Apple Intelligence.
ChatGPT and Siri integration on iPhone.
Currently, Siri relies on ChatGPT for tasks typically handled by generative AI chatbots like Google Alexa or Microsoft Copilot, which have replaced predecessors like Google Assistant and Cortana. However, Siri still has significant ground to cover. Amazon has also made notable advancements with its new Alexa+ assistant.
Siri feels increasingly outdated. Apple’s AI-powered news summaries and summarized notifications are often inconsistent. The overall lack of native AI functionality in Siri and Apple Intelligence makes them less competitive. Furthermore, AI chip shortages, talent acquisition challenges, slow development, and ineffective leadership have exacerbated the situation.
The Bloomberg report also notes the rapid advancements in the AI industry often render Apple’s work obsolete by the time it’s ready for release. While Apple has partnered with Chinese AI giants Alibaba and Baidu to accelerate development, these efforts primarily focus on expanding Apple Intelligence in China rather than boosting Siri’s overall development and the broader AI ecosystem.
In the coming years, Apple faces a significant challenge not only to become competitive but also to catch up with rivals who are already far ahead in the AI race.
