The wait stretches on for Apple users. The long-awaited redesign of Siri, initially slated for gradual integrations starting from iOS 18.4, has now been pushed back to 2026, according to the latest communications from the company. This delay, while disappointing, highlights the colossal challenges involved in the deep integration of artificial intelligence in a voice assistant used by millions of people.
An excessive ambition that faces technical obstacles
Apple had grandly announced, during the WWDC 2024, a transformed Siri, capable of understanding each user’s personal context, interpreting information on the screen, and interacting smoothly between applications. This vision, driven by the power of Apple Intelligence, promised to revolutionize our interaction with our devices. However, the complexity of this integration proves to be more challenging than expected. Jacqueline Roy, Apple’s spokesperson, acknowledged that the development of these ambitious features “is taking longer than anticipated.”
This delay raises a crucial question: what does “next year” mean in Apple’s vocabulary? As John Gruber points out, “Apple years” do not align with the traditional calendar but with the development cycles of operating systems, beginning at each WWDC. Thus, a launch in 2026 would mean an integration with iOS 19, further delaying the arrival of this next-generation Siri.
Information from Mark Gurman reveals a development process more chaotic than it appears. Multiple bugs are affecting key functionalities, prompting Apple to consider a complete reconstruction of certain parts of the system. This decision, while radical, reflects Apple’s commitment to delivering an experience that meets expectations, even if it requires additional time.
Beyond words, a rethought user experience
The stakes for Apple go far beyond adding new features. It is about rethinking the user experience, making Siri truly intelligent and intuitive. The ability to understand context, anticipate needs, and interact in a natural way is at the heart of this redesign. If the wait is long, it is because the ambition is immense.
This delay raises questions about Apple’s ability to fulfill its promises regarding AI. As competition intensifies, the Cupertino company must deliver a Siri that meets expectations, capable of competing with the most advanced voice assistants. Will the year 2026 be the year of Siri’s rebirth, or the beginning of a new era for Apple’s artificial intelligence?