Apple may not launch full-fledged upgrades for Siri until 2027
What's the story
Apple's much-awaited upgrade of Siri, its voice assistant, could be further delayed.
Mark Gurman of Bloomberg reports that the tech giant's AI division thinks a fully modernized version of Siri won't ship until iOS 20 at best in 2027.
The delay is mainly attributed to difficulties in developing and integrating advanced large language model (LLM) technology into the system.
Upgrade details
Siri's LLM upgrade expected in iOS 18.5
Despite the delay in launching a fully revamped Siri, Apple is still planning an upgrade for its voice assistant.
The company is set to introduce an LLM-powered Siri enhancement in iOS 18.5.
However, Gurman clarifies that this update will function as a distinct model from the current version of Siri, which he describes as "a system that doesn't work as smoothly as it could."
Integration plan
Apple plans to merge old and new Siri models
Ultimately, Apple's goal is to merge the two separate Siri models into one sophisticated architecture.
This new system would be able to handle both basic functions like setting timers, as well as advanced AI-driven tasks Apple demonstrated last year.
These include using context like personal information and on-screen content to perform actions across apps.
Obstacles
Challenges in merging old and new Siri models
Apple had originally planned to introduce this integrated Siri architecture in iOS 19.4, but Gurman says the plan is "running behind" schedule.
He also notes that Apple's AI division is struggling, with insiders claiming its models are "reaching their limits."
The company has been unable to get the required AI training hardware for improvements.
Also, "ineffective leadership" and employee exits have slowed progress in the department, as per the Bloomberg report.