Apple's Most Significant Siri Update Set for March – But Will It Deliver?

Essential Highlights from ZDNET

Think of a classic moment from Larry David's "Curb Your Enthusiasm" where David finds himself at odds with Siri in his car. Each time he issues a command, Siri hilariously botches it, leading to incorrect responses. Eventually, in frustration, David resorts to shouting profanities, which of course, are also misinterpreted by Siri, leaving him directionless and exasperated.

Many of us can relate to the exasperation with Siri over the years. Despite consistent promises of improvement, Apple's voice assistant often falls short. Reports suggest that Apple is gearing up to release a thoroughly revamped version of Siri, designed to function like advanced AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini. Could this anticipated LLM Siri finally be the assistant we've been wanting? Let's examine what's expected.

There’s news about a new LLM (large language model) version of Siri. According to Apple analyst Mark Gurman, this update is being tested on devices like iPhones, iPads, and Macs as a separate application. The launch is predicted for spring 2026, and it seems the schedule is holding.

Recent information indicates that LLM Siri will be unveiled with iOS 26.4 in March. Currently, iOS 26.3 is in its initial beta testing phase, anticipating a release near the end of January. Consequently, iOS 26.4 should hit beta status by February.

Apple has yet to comment on this development.

Considering past update cycles, iOS .4 versions generally roll out by late March. The timeline, however, might shift based on Siri's performance and any necessary last-minute adjustments.

Anticipating the New Siri

Similar to services like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Microsoft Copilot, the forthcoming Siri aims to utilize sophisticated LLMs to enhance conversational abilities. These models have been developed using extensive datasets to engage more naturally and minimize robotic responses.

Siri is expected to handle basic interactions locally to improve speed and privacy, but more complex tasks may rely on cloud services from companies like OpenAI or Google.

One notable feature is Siri's ability to interact with Apple's native apps and third-party applications. For instance, you might request Siri to modify a photo in Apple's Photos app, track a flight via the American Airlines app, or reorder a product through the Amazon app. App developers will need to integrate App Intents into their software for this functionality.

Another improvement, known as "personal context knowledge," allows Siri to execute tasks informed by data and preferences stored on your device. It could help locate a text from your spouse or find your electronic passport number. This feature, already implemented in parts, should be fully functional with the iOS 26.4 release.

Additionally, Siri will gain the capability to interpret on-screen content. This means you can ask it to save the visible address to contacts or generate a summary of a webpage you're browsing.

Another enhancement is called "World Knowledge Answers," where Siri acts like a typical search engine to provide direct answers rather than redirecting to a website. Questions about historical events or sports results can be answered directly by Siri.

Alongside these AI-driven features, the goal is for Siri to be less prone to misinterpretations. The aim is to accurately understand and respond to queries without confusing names, places, or other details, and avoid nonsensical responses.

Granted, Apple has overpromised and underdelivered before. The version released with iOS 18 in 2024 was disappointing, failing to meet expectations despite its intended AI capabilities. Although updates have been made, Siri continues to lag behind fully-fledged AI systems like ChatGPT or Gemini.

Now, Apple faces the challenge of truly revitalizing Siri. Users are eager for an assistant that seamlessly utilizes AI and performs tasks effectively, not one that frequently disappoints. Like many Apple enthusiasts, I eagerly anticipate discovering the capabilities of the new LLM Siri and cross my fingers that it won't be something we feel inclined to criticize for incorrect navigation instructions.