Apple’s highly anticipated AI-powered Siri upgrade has been delayed, pushing its release to 2026 instead of the originally planned launch with iOS 18.4 in April. The updated virtual assistant was set to offer enhanced intelligence and deeper personalization by leveraging user data to provide more accurate responses. However, in a statement released on March 7, Apple confirmed that the new Siri will not be available until “the coming year.”

Development Challenges Behind the Delay

Although Apple has not disclosed the exact reason for the delay, a Bloomberg report suggests that technical difficulties and ongoing improvements may be to blame. Engineers have been working intensively to resolve persistent bugs, while senior executives, who have been testing the feature firsthand, remain dissatisfied with its current performance.

There are even reports that Apple is considering overhauling the development team responsible for Siri’s AI enhancements, with the possibility of rebuilding the technology from the ground up. If true, this would further explain the postponement.

Limited Siri Enhancements in iOS 18

While iOS 18 does introduce minor improvements to Siri, such as ChatGPT integration, its core functionality remains largely unchanged. The most noticeable update is a refreshed glowing interface, which is only available on iPhones that support Apple Intelligence.

Apple had positioned the new Siri as a major AI-driven upgrade, offering a more personalized and advanced experience similar to ChatGPT. However, with the ongoing delays, the company faces potential setbacks, especially after promoting these enhancements for over six months without a definitive launch date. The uncertainty also raises concerns about whether the iPhone 17 series, expected in late 2025, will come equipped with the full Apple Intelligence experience.