Apple has been working on a major overhaul of Siri, intending to transform it into a more capable, AI-driven assistant [5]. The goal is for Siri to handle tasks like finding specific photos, managing contact information, editing photos, and summarizing notes for emails [6]. This revamp was initially slated for release in 2025 but was pushed back, with rumors suggesting it would debut with the iOS 26.4 update in March [6].
However, recent reports indicate that Apple encountered significant problems during testing [1]. The updated Siri reportedly struggled with slow performance and inaccurate query processing [1]. "Apple instructed engineers to use the upcoming iOS 26.5 in order to test new Siri features," indicating a shift in the release timeline [1].
Rather than releasing the redesigned Siri all at once, Apple now plans to roll out its new features incrementally [1]. According to Bloomberg, some capabilities may arrive with iOS 26.5 in May, with further updates in iOS 27 later this year [1]. The staggered release suggests that Apple is prioritizing a more stable and reliable user experience, even if it means a longer wait for the full suite of features [1].
This isn't the first time Apple has faced delays with its AI initiatives. A more personalized version of Siri was delayed nearly a year ago [8]. The company has been working to integrate the new Siri engine into its core apps, including Mail, Calendar, and Safari [1]. The ultimate goal is to create a chatbot-like experience, similar to what users find with tools like ChatGPT, but integrated directly into Apple's ecosystem [5].
The news of Siri's continued delays has had a noticeable impact on Apple's stock [2]. On Thursday, Apple's stock dropped 5%, resulting in a $200 billion loss in market capitalization [2]. This decline marks the second-largest one-day drop for Apple, surpassed only by a $311 billion loss in April 2025 [2]. Investors are likely concerned about Apple's ability to compete in the rapidly evolving AI landscape [2].
The relaunch of Siri with AI enhancements has been delayed due to performance issues identified during internal testing. The updated Siri was reportedly slow and struggled with accurately processing requests, leading Apple to opt for a phased rollout instead of a full launch.
The updated Siri will be released incrementally, with some features potentially arriving in May with iOS 26.5 and further updates expected in iOS 27 later in the year. The initial plan was to release the revamped Siri with iOS 26.4 in March, but those plans have changed.
News of the Siri delays caused Apple's stock to drop by 5%, resulting in a $200 billion loss in market capitalization. This was the second-largest single-day drop for Apple, reflecting investor concerns about the company's competitiveness in the AI space.
Apple aims to transform Siri into a more capable, AI-driven assistant that can handle tasks such as finding specific photos, managing contact information, editing photos, and summarizing notes for emails. The goal is to create a chatbot-like experience integrated directly into Apple's ecosystem, similar to ChatGPT.
Apple intends to integrate the new Siri engine into its core apps, including Mail, Calendar, and Safari. This integration is part of Apple's plan to create a seamless user experience across its ecosystem.
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