Apple Inc. is encountering significant challenges within its AI division, leading to delays in updating the Siri digital assistant. Originally planned for the iOS 18.4 update in April, the new features that where introduced last June, which include Siri’s ability to use personal information for queries and enhanced app control—are now expected to be released “sometime in the coming year.” Apple has been struggling to develop these features, pushing their release date back to at least next year. Concerns were raised internally by software chief Craig Federighi and other executives about the features not working as intended. Some within Apple’s AI division believe that the features may need to be rebuilt from scratch, delaying their rollout until the next-generation Siri, anticipated in 2026.
These delays are particularly embarrassing for Apple, as the company has been promoting these features in TV commercials for nearly six months. The iPhone 16, introduced last fall, highlighted the integration of the Apple Intelligence AI platform. However, the core features may not be available until months after the iPhone 17 is launched. Apple’s plans to make Siri more conversational and similar to ChatGPT have been significantly delayed. The foundational upgrades are expected to be ready by 2026, with the full user interface likely arriving in iOS 20 in 2027. This has led to internal discussions about potential changes in leadership within the AI group.
To address customer frustration, AppleCare support representatives have been instructed to reiterate that the new Siri features are anticipated to roll out next year. Additionally, there are concerns that more powerful AI models required for Siri could strain current hardware, necessitating future product upgrades.