Apple is targeting Spring 2026 for the launch of its redesigned Siri voice assistant, Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reported. The new Siri was first revealed at WWDC 2024 but has faced multiple delays since its announcement.
Delayed Siri Upgrade: What’s Happening?
Sources familiar with the matter said Apple plans to release the upgraded Siri as part of the iOS 26.4 update, typically expected around March 2026, though no firm release date has been confirmed.
The update aims to make Siri more personalized by using user data and on-screen content to improve responses. Apple is also developing a system called App Intents to enhance Siri’s ability to control apps and in-app functions across devices.
Causes of the Delay
Sources familiar with the situation reveal multiple factors behind the postponements:
- One major issue lies in Siri’s architecture—currently split between an older system handling routine tasks and a newer AI framework powering advanced features. Attempts to merge these two systems have resulted in bugs and operational instability.
- Additionally, reports highlight friction between Apple’s AI engineering teams and marketing groups, with disagreements over missed deadlines and feature expectations.
- Following these setbacks, John Giannandrea, Apple’s AI lead, reportedly stepped back from direct oversight of Siri. Responsibility for its redevelopment was transferred to Mike Rockwell and Craig Federighi.
Timeline Changes
The latest information indicates that Siri’s new version will debut alongside iOS 26.4 in Spring 2026. The updated Apple Intelligence Siri will bring improved awareness of personal context, enhanced on-screen responsiveness, and deeper integration with apps.
The timeline has evolved as follows:
- Initially, the update was planned to coincide with the iPhone 16 release in Fall 2024.
- That target shifted to Spring 2025, aiming for the iOS 18.4 release.
- Later, the rollout was delayed to May 2025, aligning with iOS 18.5.
Impact on Other Products
The Siri delay has also pushed back related hardware plans, including a smart home hub that relies heavily on the new Siri features and upcoming smart glasses that require AI-powered image analysis. A chatbot app named Knowledge remains in early development.
At WWDC 2025, Federighi stated that while no exact date has been announced, the Siri update is expected within the “coming year” and required additional time to achieve Apple’s quality benchmarks.
Looking Ahead
If development proceeds smoothly, March 2026 is the earliest likely release for the revamped Siri, assuming no further delays, the report concluded.