Apple claims we have entered ‘a new era’ for Siri with the introduction of Apple Intelligence. Is this claim valid? In a way, yes. However, the situation is far more complex than it seems, especially in light of Mark Gurman’s recent insights.
Apple’s controversial iOS 18.1 choice
With the launch of iOS 18.1 last month, Apple made a striking decision.
While Siri received a visually appealing refreshed design, its actual functionalities remained largely unchanged.
This ‘new’ iteration of Siri features an eye-catching glow that conveys an AI capability.
However, the AI aspect isn’t fully realized just yet.
In iOS 18.1 (for devices supporting Apple Intelligence), Siri has improved with:
- enhanced knowledge about Apple products
- better comprehension when users fumble their words
- improved retention of context across multiple requests
Additionally, you can now interact with Siri by typing after double-tapping the bottom of the screen.
Is this the dawn of a new era? Perhaps, but only just. It’s also causing some confusion among users.
What’s next for Siri in iOS 18.2 and beyond
Next month, iOS 18.2 will introduce a highly awaited feature: integration with ChatGPT.
This means Siri can forward certain requests it can’t manage to ChatGPT, enhancing its overall usefulness.
Furthermore, iOS 18.2 will allow users to directly request ChatGPT by beginning with, “Ask ChatGPT.”
Later, likely in iOS 18.4 during spring, Apple is anticipated to roll out three additional powerful updates for Siri:
- personal context awareness for providing more relevant assistance based on your data
- many new in-app capabilities across both Apple and third-party applications
- awareness of content displayed on your screen at any time
Moreover, Mark Gurman reported recently that a ‘LLM Siri’ is in the works for iOS 19 and macOS 16, which may be showcased during WWDC in June but won’t reach devices until the spring of 2026 through a software update.
While Apple announced that its AI enhancements would be gradually released throughout the coming year, many voiced criticism. However, I hold a more positive perspective. There are numerous advantages to the gradual rollout of Apple Intelligence.
Yet for Siri specifically, I think the critics’ concerns are valid.
The issues with a staggered Siri launch
Currently, Siri in iOS 18.1 appears entirely new (for AI-enabled iPhones). However, when it comes to features, there has been minimal change.
This poses a problem because Siri’s effectiveness hinges on trust. Do you believe it will perform the task you’ve requested?
For many users, past experiences with Siri have led to disappointment, resulting in a hesitance to ask again.
This cycle is set to repeat itself with what is being touted as Siri’s ‘new era.’
Due to Apple’s choice to deliver a series of smaller updates rather than one significant ‘new Siri’ at once, gaining user confidence in the assistant’s enhancements will be challenging.
Siri needs to rebuild that trust. It must achieve this through incremental improvements that most users may struggle to keep track of.
While there’s a chance Apple’s approach will be successful, I remain skeptical for now.
One thing is certain: the upcoming period for Siri and its users promises to be quite tumultuous.
What are your thoughts on Apple’s strategy for Siri? Share your opinions in the comments.
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