Delays Expected for Siri Enhancements in Upcoming iOS Updates

Apple is reportedly facing challenges in advancing its voice assistant, Siri, as the tech giant prepares for major updates in its mobile operating system. Enhancements initially slated for iOS 18 will now be pushed back to iOS 18.5, with the more advanced features anticipated only in iOS 20, according to industry insiders.

As Siri approaches its 14th anniversary in fall 2025, Apple had intended to finalize key upgrades with the release of iOS 18.4. However, it appears that the rollout has been delayed. The planned updates include several functionalities aimed at making Siri more interactive and aware of user context. This includes the ability to read on-screen content, recognize personal connections, and execute in-app commands, enhancing user experience significantly.

While these features are now expected in the forthcoming iOS 18.5 update, Apple is also set to expand Siri's capabilities into new markets, including China, in collaboration with local partners. Beta testing for this update is expected to commence in April, allowing developers to familiarize themselves with the new functionalities.

However, the most significant transformation for Siri--making it more conversational--will likely not materialize until the launch of iOS 20. Despite earlier expectations that these improvements would be integrated into iOS 19, it seems that Apple is struggling to refine the underlying architecture necessary for these advancements. Industry experts suggest that a truly modernized version of Siri, capable of engaging users in more meaningful dialogues, will not be available until at least 2027.

This ongoing struggle highlights the complexities involved in evolving artificial intelligence applications and suggests that Apple is committed to making Siri more competitive against other AI assistants like ChatGPT and the new Alexa.