iOS 26 brings an update that gives Siri five new skills. While major changes aren't expected until next year, Apple is already delivering a number of practical new features. In particular, the closer integration with ChatGPT and improvements in handling contextual information make Siri noticeably more useful.
Siri has received little positive feedback recently. Delayed updates, delayed features, and strong competition from other AI assistants have taken their toll on the voice assistant. A major Siri upgrade was supposed to be available by now, but Apple has postponed the comprehensive changes until next spring. iOS 26, however, unlocks five surprising features that directly improve Siri experience and demonstrate Apple's continued development.
Siri Product Knowledge: Device and Context Awareness
One of Siri's biggest weaknesses was its lack of contextual awareness. With iOS 26, Siri now draws on information from the screen, device settings, model, and installed software. This makes responses more precise and more tailored to the situation. This makes the voice assistant more flexible in everyday life.
Copy and paste ChatGPT replies with formatting
Anyone who previously tried to copy content from ChatGPT via Siri had to forgo clean formatting. With iOS 26, formatting such as bold, links, headings, tables, bullet points, and even inline images are retained. This makes it easier to reuse content, for example, in notes, emails, or documents.
Create files directly from ChatGPT
iOS 26 makes it possible to instantly convert content from ChatGPT into files. If someone asks for a spreadsheet, for example, the answer can be saved directly as a document and stored in the Files app via the Share menu, or opened in a preferred app. This significantly expands Siri's usefulness for productive tasks.
Follow up on ChatGPT responses with actions
Also new is the ability to continue replies from ChatGPT with voice commands. If a list of karaoke songs is suggested, a command like "Play the third" is all that's needed. Siri understands the connection to the previous reply and performs the desired action. This type of interactivity brings Siri closer to the functionality of the ChatGPT app.
AirPlay improvements with Siri
There's also been some changes in the music world. If you use AirPlay on a HomePod, you can now instruct Siri to play the same song or playlist simultaneously on other HomePods in the house. This makes multi-room music easier and more flexible.
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iOS 26 brings practical everyday improvements to Siri
With iOS 26, Apple delivers five tangible improvements to Siri that are immediately noticeable. The update makes the voice assistant more context-aware, more productive, and more flexible in its interaction with ChatGPT and AirPlay. Even though the major updates are still pending, one thing is clear: Siri is being gradually developed further and, with iOS 26, will be given features that truly make a difference in everyday life. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Trong Nguyen)
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Frequently asked questions about iOS 26 and the new Siri features
iOS 26 brings five new Siri features: context awareness for more precise responses, improved copying of ChatGPT content with formatting, creating files from ChatGPT responses, follow-up actions on ChatGPT results, and AirPlay improvements.
Siri can now take into account the screen, device settings, model, and software. This makes responses more accurate and tailored to the current situation.
ChatGPT replies can be copied in their original format, saved as a file, and reused with subsequent actions. This closes the gap between Siri and the ChatGPT app.
With iOS 26, it's possible to play music via Siri not just on one HomePod, but on multiple HomePods in the house simultaneously. This facilitates multi-room scenarios.
The comprehensive Siri upgrades with Apple Intelligence are planned for next spring with iOS 26.4. iOS 26 already delivers small but noticeable improvements.
