Apple has given its virtual assistant a major facelift at WWDC 2026, introducing a revamped Siri AI powered by a new on-device model and collaboration with Google Gemini.
New Features Unveiled
The updated Siri AI is based on Apple’s second-generation on-device Apple Intelligence model, allowing for faster and more accurate processing of user queries. Mike Rockwell, VP of Siri Engineering, showcased the new capabilities, including improved natural language understanding, enhanced contextual awareness, and a more conversational tone.
The AI overhaul also brings a host of new features, such as multimodal interactions, enabling Siri to seamlessly switch between voice, text, and visual inputs. For example, users can initiate a conversation with Siri, then transition to a text-based interface to review and edit their requests. This fusion of interfaces promises to make interactions with Siri more intuitive and user-friendly.
Dedicated App and Integration
In addition to the AI redesign, Apple is releasing a dedicated Siri Companion App to provide users with a central hub to customize and manage their Siri experiences. The app will allow users to personalize their interactions, set up preferences, and gain insights into their Siri usage.
The updated Siri AI and Companion App will integrate with other Apple services, including iOS 17, macOS 17, and watchOS 9, enabling a more cohesive and seamless experience across devices.
What this means
This overhaul of Siri AI is a significant step towards making virtual assistants more intelligent and user-friendly. By providing a more conversational and multimodal experience, Apple is poised to enhance its competitive edge in the market. The dedicated Companion App will give users more control over their Siri interactions, ultimately leading to a more personalized and efficient virtual assistant experience.
As the AI landscape continues to evolve, this collaboration with Google Gemini suggests that Apple is committed to exploring new opportunities for innovation and improvement. With this updated Siri AI and Companion App, Apple is setting the stage for a new era of intelligent assistant interactions.
