Apple Quietly Tests Siri Chatbot With Employees
Apple is quietly testing a new Siri chatbot that works like ChatGPT, but it’s currently restricted to internal use only, according to a Bloomberg report. The experimental app, code-named Veritas (“truth” in Latin), allows Apple engineers to trial AI features such as searching through emails, playing music, or even completing tasks like photo editing.
Unlike OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google Gemini, or Microsoft’s Copilot—which are already widely available to consumers—Apple’s chatbot remains locked behind employee access. The cautious rollout highlights Apple’s deliberate, slower approach to integrating generative AI into its flagship products.
Apple’s Slow AI Strategy Raises Questions
At the recent iPhone 17 launch, Apple emphasized chip upgrades and design changes but only briefly touched on AI enhancements such as live translations in Messages and visual recognition in Photos. Most of those features had already been teased months earlier at Apple’s WWDC developer event.
Analysts warn that this careful strategy could put Apple at risk of falling behind in the AI race. Siri, once a pioneer in voice assistants, has struggled to stay relevant against competitors that are rapidly expanding into everyday use. Some experts even suggest Apple could face a “Nokia moment” if it fails to deliver meaningful AI breakthroughs soon.
Why Apple Is Playing Catch-Up
By keeping the Siri chatbot in testing while rivals release AI assistants at scale, Apple risks missing the opportunity to shape consumer expectations. Competitors like Google and Microsoft are already collecting massive amounts of real-world user data, giving them an advantage in improving their AI systems quickly.
Still, insiders say Apple is aware of the stakes. The company sees rebuilding Siri as a critical step in regaining ground in the AI arms race. Reports suggest that an upgraded Siri, powered by generative AI, could finally make its public debut as early as March.
What This Means for Apple’s AI Future
Even though the new Siri chatbot remains internal for now, it signals that Apple is serious about transforming its digital assistant into a true AI-powered tool. Whether Apple’s cautious strategy will pay off—or leave it permanently trailing behind—will likely be revealed in the coming months.