Apple Plans Major Siri Overhaul for iOS 27
Key Points
- Apple is testing a standalone Siri app with a new interface.
- An "Ask Siri" button is being trialed to increase visibility.
- The redesign aims to make Siri function like a conversational AI chatbot.
- The update is slated for iOS 27, iPadOS 27 and macOS 27.
- A preview is expected at WWDC 2024, but Apple has not confirmed details.
- The overhaul represents Apple’s biggest Siri change since its launch.
Apple is reportedly testing a standalone Siri app, a refreshed interface and an "Ask Siri" button that would make the voice assistant more visible across its devices. The changes, aimed at turning Siri into a full‑featured AI chatbot similar to ChatGPT, are expected to debut with iOS 27, iPadOS 27 and macOS 27 after a preview at WWDC 2024. Apple has not confirmed the details, but the reported overhaul could mark the company's most significant AI push for Siri since its launch more than a decade ago.
Background
Apple’s voice assistant, Siri, has been a core feature of its ecosystem for over ten years. Recent reports suggest the company is preparing its most extensive update to the service yet, shifting from a built‑in utility to a standalone AI chatbot experience.
Planned Features
The upcoming redesign includes a dedicated Siri app that would operate independently of the operating system’s core functions. A new, more prominent interface is being tested, along with an "Ask Siri" button intended to increase visibility and ease of use across iPhone, iPad and Mac devices. These elements aim to make Siri feel more like a conversational AI, comparable to popular large‑language‑model chatbots.
Rollout Timeline
According to the source, Apple is testing the new Siri experience ahead of its Worldwide Developers Conference, where a preview is expected. The full rollout is projected for the release of iOS 27, iPadOS 27 and macOS 27 later in the year.
Strategic Implications
By positioning Siri as a chatbot, Apple seeks to better compete with AI offerings from OpenAI and Google. The shift reflects a broader effort to reset expectations around Apple’s AI strategy after earlier delays. While Apple has previously hinted at a more personalized Siri, the reported overhaul suggests a more sweeping relaunch is in the works.
Current Status
Apple has not publicly confirmed the specifics of the planned features, and a company representative did not immediately respond to requests for comment. As testing continues, details could evolve before the official announcement at WWDC.