Apple admits AI lag in developing a major upgrade to its Siri digital assistant, aiming to make it more conversational and capable of handling complex requests like ChatGPT and other modern AI systems. The revamped version, dubbed "LLM Siri" internally, represents Apple's push to become more competitive in artificial intelligence.
The new Siri will leverage advanced large language models (LLMs) to enable natural back-and-forth conversations with users. These AI models can process massive amounts of data to identify patterns and provide more sophisticated responses. The upgraded assistant will also be able to complete tasks more quickly and tap into features from Apple's recently launched Intelligence platform.
Apple plans to announce the overhauled Siri in 2025 as part of iOS 19 and macOS 16 updates, with a consumer release targeted for spring 2026. The technology is currently being tested as a separate app on iPhones, iPads and Macs but will eventually replace the existing Siri interface.
The new capabilities will bring Siri closer to competing AI assistants like ChatGPT and Google's AI revolution. Key improvements include better integration with third-party apps through expanded App Intents and access to Apple Intelligence features for tasks like writing and summarizing text.
While Apple introduced some Siri updates with its AI platform launch in June 2023, including a new glowing interface and typed commands, the upcoming overhaul represents a more fundamental transformation. The company is developing a new end-to-end system with ChatGPT-like abilities while maintaining its focus on user privacy.
Recent job listings from Apple hint at these developments, seeking candidates with expertise in conversational AI interfaces and assistant technologies. The project involves teams across Apple, with the Siri interaction group now operating under Alan Dye, the company's vice president of human interface design.
This initiative marks Apple's latest attempt to enhance Siri's conversational abilities after previous challenges. As the AI landscape evolves rapidly, Apple aims to bring advanced capabilities in-house while potentially continuing to offer access to specialized third-party AI systems.