Apple Delays AI-Powered Siri Upgrade, Citing Development Challenges
Apple has officially confirmed a delay in its highly anticipated AI-powered Siri upgrade, acknowledging that the development process is taking longer than expected. The announcement, made through Daring Fireball, has left many Apple users disappointed, as they were eagerly awaiting a smarter and more capable version of the virtual assistant within the iOS 18 lifecycle. While Apple has already introduced several Apple Intelligence features, the absence of a major Siri upgrade remains a notable gap in the company’s AI strategy.
Apple Acknowledges the Delay
For months, reports and leaks suggested that Apple was preparing to roll out the first phase of its new and improved Siri by spring 2025. This update was expected to enhance Siri’s ability to understand personal context, interact more intelligently with apps, and hold natural conversations—bringing it closer to the capabilities of OpenAI’s ChatGPT Voice Mode and Google’s Gemini Live.
However, with the release of iOS 18.4 in developer and public betas, it became evident that the major Siri update was missing. Now, Apple has officially addressed the situation, stating, “It’s going to take us longer than we thought to deliver on these features, and we anticipate rolling them out in the coming year.”
What Was Expected from the New Siri?
The delayed Siri update was intended to be a significant leap forward, incorporating Apple’s advancements in AI and machine learning. Among the promised features were:
- Personal Context Awareness: Siri would have been able to understand and remember user preferences, making interactions more personalized.
- App Control and Integration: The assistant was supposed to gain deeper access to apps, allowing users to control more functions via voice commands.
- Improved Conversational Abilities: A more natural, fluid, and engaging voice interaction, rivalling AI-driven virtual assistants like ChatGPT.
Despite the delay, Apple continues to roll out other Apple Intelligence features, including writing tools, notification summaries, and the new Clean Up function in the Photos app. However, many users consider these additions secondary to the highly anticipated Siri overhaul.
A Rare Public Admission from Apple
Apple’s acknowledgment of the delay is notable because the company typically maintains a tight-lipped approach to setbacks. The transparency in addressing expectations for the new Siri is somewhat reminiscent of past Apple challenges, such as the infamous cancellation of AirPower, the iPhone 4’s ‘Antennagate,’ and the initial issues with Apple Maps.
Apple’s statement aligns with broader concerns about its approach to AI. TechRadar’s Editor-at-Large, Lance Ulanoff, pointed out that Apple’s privacy-first stance—while beneficial for security—may be slowing down its AI advancements. Apple’s Private Cloud Compute framework ensures that AI-driven features remain secure and private, but critics argue that this cautious approach could be impeding innovation.
The Stakes Are High for WWDC 2025
With the delay confirmed, expectations are now shifting toward Apple’s 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which is traditionally held in June. The event is likely to showcase Apple’s AI strategy moving forward, potentially with a first look at the long-awaited Siri upgrade as part of iOS 19.
Given the rising competition in AI-driven virtual assistants, Apple must deliver a breakthrough that aligns with user expectations. While Apple’s commitment to getting the new Siri right is commendable, the delay raises questions about whether the company can keep pace with rapidly evolving AI technologies from rivals like OpenAI and Google.
Conclusion
Apple’s delay of the AI-infused Siri is a disappointment for users who have invested in Apple Intelligence-compatible devices. While the company remains committed to rolling out these advanced features, the extended timeline means that Apple must make a strong impression at WWDC 2025 and with iOS 19. Until then, Apple users will have to wait longer for a Siri that can truly compete in the AI landscape.
