Apple Faces Setbacks in Siri AI Development, Delays New Features
Internal meeting reveals quality issues and timeline uncertainties for Siri's enhanced capabilities, with launch now expected in 2026.
- Apple senior director Robby Walker acknowledged delays in Siri's AI features during a private all-hands meeting, describing the situation as 'ugly' and 'embarrassing.'
- The delayed features, initially tied to the iPhone 16 launch, were showcased in marketing campaigns before being fully functional, leading to internal and public criticism.
- Walker cited quality concerns, stating the new Siri features currently work only 60–80% of the time, and emphasized the need for improvements before release.
- Demonstrations during the meeting highlighted Siri's ability to locate personal information, manipulate apps via voice commands, and perform context-specific tasks, showcasing its potential.
- Apple aims to include the delayed features in iOS 19, expected in 2026, but Walker stressed that the timeline remains uncertain and contingent on readiness.