On June 8, 2026, Apple announced a significant upgrade to its virtual assistant, renaming it Siri AI and incorporating artificial intelligence features. This announcement came during the Worldwide Developers Conference, where Apple presented various advancements across its software platforms.
Siri AI now competes directly with modern AI assistants like ChatGPT. This overhaul marks the most substantial transformation since Apple acquired Siri in 2010 and integrated it into its devices in 2011.
During the event, Apple executives showcased Siri AI’s capabilities in handling everyday tasks like checking concert dates, online shopping for a backpack, and organizing events. Mike Rockwell, Apple’s Vice President responsible for Siri engineering, explained through a keynote video that Siri AI would draw on a vast array of data sources, both on the device and online, to provide answers and complete tasks.
Apple also unveiled other innovations, including advanced parental controls and comprehensive software improvements across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS.
Siri is now a profoundly more capable assistant that helps you find what you need and gets more done.
Despite consumer hesitance toward rapid AI adoption, the popularity of AI chatbots continues to grow. Notably, three of the top six apps in Apple’s marketplace were chatbot apps, with OpenAI’s ChatGPT leading the list. This highlights a significant user interest in AI applications.
Apple’s Siri AI stands both as a competitor and partner to Google; their partnership leverages Google’s Gemini to power the new Siri version. However, Apple’s AI strategy has faced challenges, particularly with OpenAI’s ChatGPT, as reported tensions and legal considerations arise.
Siri AI offers unique features such as searching device-specific content like photos and messages, and creating reminders and calendar events more efficiently. According to Rockwell, Siri AI’s integration allows for seamless use across various apps, whether texting or recording thoughts in a journal app.
Apple outlined other potential Siri AI applications, from seeking sightseeing advice to brainstorming pet nicknames. Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, stated that Siri AI would be accessible later this year across iPhones, iPads, and Macs, initially in English. Expansion to other languages and regions would follow, except for the European Union and China, where regulatory consultations are ongoing.