Apple is reportedly preparing one of its most significant iPhone software upgrades in years, with iOS 26.4 Intelligence update expected to introduce a broad set of new AI features and long-awaited improvements to Siri.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple plans to unveil iOS 26.4 Intelligence update in the coming weeks, with the first developer beta likely arriving during the week of February 23, 2026. Gurman noted in his Power On newsletter that users will get a deeper look at the update during Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference in June 2026, although the event itself is expected to be more muted than usual.
The developer beta is expected to be followed by a public beta release sometime in March 2026, giving users an early preview of Apple’s latest AI-driven capabilities.
Siri’s Long-Awaited iOS 26.4 Intelligence Update
A major focus of iOS 26.4 Intelligence update is the long-promised AI overhaul of Siri. The updated voice assistant is expected to be powered partly by Apple Intelligence and partly by Google’s Gemini models, following a recently announced partnership between the two companies.
The Siri revamp was first introduced at WWDC 2024, but Apple delayed its rollout during the iOS 18 cycle. With iOS 26.4 Apple Intelligence, Apple is now aiming to make Siri more proactive and context-aware through three core capabilities.
Personal context is expected to allow Siri to search through a user’s own content — including notes, messages, and emails — to retrieve specific information or complete tasks more intelligently. On-screen awareness would enable Siri to understand what is currently displayed on the device and respond accordingly. In addition, expanded in-app and cross-app actions are designed to give users deeper voice-based control across applications.
Bloomberg also reported that iOS 26.4 Intelligence update will introduce a new set of emojis as part of the update.
Apple’s 2026 Hardware Roadmap
Alongside the software push, Apple is preparing for a busy hardware year. Gurman reported that 2026 will include the launch of the iPhone 17e, updated iPads, and refreshed Macs.
The iPhone 17e is expected to feature an A19 chip, support MagSafe charging, and use Apple’s latest in-house cellular and wireless chips. The device is reportedly due to launch imminently.
Apple’s iPad lineup will also see updates, including an entry-level model powered by the A18 chip and a refreshed iPad Air featuring the M4 processor. Major design changes are unlikely this year, with the exception of the iPad mini, which is expected to adopt an OLED display.
The Mac lineup is set for a broad refresh as well, including new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, a MacBook Air with an M5 chip, upgraded Mac Studio desktops, a refreshed Studio Display, and new Mac Minis.
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