Apple is working on making Siri significantly more powerful with Apple Intelligence. The new version of the voice assistant is expected to react more intelligently, understand the context better and be more deeply integrated into the apps. However, the introduction of the new Siri functions could be delayed. A report by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg suggests that Apple is struggling with technical problems. The plan was actually to introduce the expanded Siri capabilities with iOS 18.4, but now it seems as if the company cannot stick to this schedule.
Apple Intelligence is a key innovation in iOS 18. It is designed to make Siri significantly more powerful and work in a way that fits better into users' everyday lives. Three major Siri improvements have been announced:
- Personal context: Siri should understand what you asked before in order to give more intelligent answers.
- Better app integration: The assistant can operate in multiple apps at the same time without you having to switch between them.
- On-screen awareness: Siri should recognize what is happening on your screen in order to provide more appropriate responses.
Apple has big plans for Siri but not all features may be available immediately.
Technical problems delay the start
The original plan was to introduce the new Siri features with iOS 18.4. But Apple seems to be having difficulties getting the software to run stably. According to Bloomberg many of the new features do not work reliably yet. The first beta of iOS 18.4 is expected next week. But given the existing problems, it seems unlikely that the new Siri functions will be included in this first version. Apple has already confirmedthat Apple Intelligence will be available in additional languages, including German, in April. This suggests that the iOS 18.4 update will be released during this period. However, it remains unclear whether Apple will be able to provide all Siri functions by then or whether some of them will only be activated later.
Possible launch with iOS 18.5 in May
If Apple does not complete the new Siri features in time, they could be added with iOS 18.5 in May instead. This would be an unusual move, as Apple no longer usually releases major software updates in May. From June onwards, the company usually focuses on completing the next iOS version that is presented at WWDC, in this case iOS 19. Mark Gurman thinks it is possible that Apple will integrate the new Siri features into iOS 18.4, but deactivate them by default. This would allow the company to continue testing in iOS 18.5 without completely delaying the original schedule.
Apple Intelligence for Siri: Wait until May or even longer?
Those waiting for the improved Siri functions may have to wait a little longer. Some features may not appear until iOS 18.5 in May or even later. In the first beta of iOS 18.4, Siri may not be included in the new version. In any case, Apple Intelligence will be an important development for Siri - even if it does not come immediately, as originally expected. (Image: Apple)
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