Apple Introduces AI-Driven Siri Overhaul

On June 8, 2026, Apple announced a major redesign of its virtual assistant, Siri, now renamed Siri AI. The announcement took place at Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference.

Company executives demonstrated Siri AI’s capabilities in handling various tasks such as checking concert dates, shopping, and organizing events. This revamp is significant, marking the most comprehensive update since Apple acquired Siri in 2010 and integrated it into its devices the following year. It positions Siri in closer competition with contemporary AI tools like ChatGPT.

Mike Rockwell, Apple’s Vice President in charge of Siri engineering, explained in a keynote video that Siri AI uses various information sources, including device data and internet resources, to answer queries and perform tasks.

During the conference, Apple introduced advancements in Apple Intelligence, including Siri AI, enhanced parental controls, and software improvements across its operating systems: iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS.

Siri is now a profoundly more capable assistant that helps you find what you need and performs more tasks, said Rockwell.

Apple’s move into AI chatbots comes amidst mixed consumer reactions. Some tech companies have faced backlash for rapid AI integration, like Microsoft’s pullback on AI-boosted Xbox features. Nonetheless, AI chatbot apps are popular on Apple’s app marketplace, with entries like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google Gemini ranking high.

Apple views Google as both a competitor and an ally. An AI partnership established with Google in January will see Gemini assist in powering Siri AI. Despite being slower than some peers in AI adoption, Apple had integrated ChatGPT with Siri in 2024. However, the partnership with OpenAI experienced tension, as highlighted by reported expectations and legal considerations.

Apple emphasized advantages that Siri AI offers, such as a more integrated device search capability and creating reminders and calendar events more efficiently. Rockwell noted, “Because it’s built right into the keyboard, you can use it across the system, whether you’re texting the group chat while you’re on the subway or thinking out loud while using your journaling app.”

The company also suggests use cases like asking for sightseeing tips, advice on exercises, and creative brainstorming, like finding a nickname for a porcupine.

Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, announced that Siri AI would be available later in the year on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, initially launching in English. It will later expand to other languages, though it will not initially launch in the European Union or China due to regulatory compliance.