Apple introduces next-generation Siri as AI race intensifies

Apple also revealed that some of its AI models were built using Google’s Gemini technology, while larger models will run on cloud infrastructure powered by Nvidia chips.

Apple on Monday introduced a major overhaul of Siri, unveiling a more advanced AI-powered assistant as it seeks to narrow the gap with rivals in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence (AI) market, Reuters reports.The upgraded assistant — dubbed “Siri AI” — features a more conversational interface, a standalone app, the ability to understand on-screen content, and access to web-based information.

The launch comes two years after Apple first promised significant Siri enhancements that were repeatedly delayed.The revamped assistant will allow users to revisit previous conversations and retrieve information, such as addresses mentioned in messages, even if they were never formally saved.The update represents Apple’s most ambitious effort yet to modernise Siri, which has lagged behind AI offerings such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Anthropic’s Claude and Google’s Gemini.

Unlike competitors that are increasingly focused on fully autonomous AI agents, Apple said it is prioritising practical AI features embedded into everyday user experiences.“Some appear to be racing forward, seemingly pursuing AI for the sake of AI, without clear regard for the people, all of us, that it’s ultimately meant to serve,” said Craig Federighi, Apple software chief during the keynote address.Apple also revealed that some of its AI models were built using Google’s Gemini technology, while larger models will run on cloud infrastructure powered by Nvidia chips.

Despite these partnerships, the company stressed that user privacy remains central to its AI strategy, with most processing taking place either on users’ devices or through Apple’s private cloud infrastructure.Siri AI will be able to search messages and emails and respond to questions based on content currently visible on a user’s screen.

Searches and AI-generated content will be stored within a new standalone app available across iPhone, iPad and Mac devices, synchronised through Apple’s private cloud computing technology.The company also said Siri AI will not initially be available on iPhones and iPads in the European Union due to privacy and security concerns linked to regulatory requirements under the Digital Markets Act.

The feature will also not be launched in China for now as Apple continues to navigate local regulatory issues.Beyond Siri, Apple announced several additional updates, including expanded child-safety features that allow parents to control which apps, websites and contacts children can access.

Messaging apps will now automatically blur graphic images and notify parents, extending existing protections related to nudity.The company also introduced improvements to its image-generation tools and added new AI-powered capabilities to the Safari browser, including features that can notify users when out-of-stock items become available again.