Apple's AI Siri hits more problems - now delayed until iOS 27

Apple's Siri AI upgrade faces more delays due to Google Gemini integration problems. Features now pushed from iOS 26.4 to possibly iOS 27, with testing showing query processing issues and slow response times.

Apple's highly anticipated AI-powered Siri upgrade has hit another roadblock, with features now delayed from iOS 26.4 to later releases including iOS 27. The Google Gemini partnership was meant to power these improvements, but internal testing has revealed significant problems with query processing and response times, according to Bloomberg's report in February 2026.

What's wrong with the new Siri

Apple has "run into snags" during internal testing, with specific problems emerging across core functionality. Siri sometimes doesn't properly process queries and can take too long to respond to requests — fundamental issues for any voice assistant.

More concerning is that Siri sometimes falls back on using ChatGPT for information instead of relying on the Gemini-powered technology that Apple has partnered with Google to use, even when the new version of Siri is capable of handling a user's request. This suggests integration problems between Apple's systems and Google's AI technology.

The situation is described as "fluid" by Bloomberg, meaning Apple's plans could change, though executives are reportedly reluctant to further delay the Siri functionality beyond spring 2026.

Features delayed and spread across iOS updates

The enhanced Siri was originally planned for iOS 26.4, due to begin testing later this month. Now Apple engineers are using iOS 26.5 for further internal testing, suggesting features will be delayed until that May 2026 update at the earliest.

Employees testing iOS 26.5 report that it includes all promised features — personalization, onscreen awareness, and the ability for Siri to do more in and between apps. However, not all features are working reliably and there are problems with accuracy.

Apple also planned unannounced features like image generation through Image Playground and web search summarization. These were tested for iOS 26.4 and might still make it into that update, giving Apple something to announce despite the broader delays.

The long road to AI Siri

We've been waiting for the Apple Intelligence version of Siri since WWDC 2024, when Apple first announced these features for iOS 18. Initially rumoured for spring 2025, Apple then delayed the functionality for an entire year, targeting iOS 26.4 for spring 2026.

The delays highlight Apple's struggles to compete with established AI chatbots. While competitors like Google Assistant and Alexa have evolved their conversational capabilities, Siri has remained relatively static. iOS 27's focus on quality over flashy features suggests Apple is prioritising getting the basics right.

Major changes are still planned for iOS 27, with Apple aiming to add chatbot functionality to Siri to better compete with Gemini, Claude, and ChatGPT. That version will have deep integration with Apple's operating systems — assuming the testing goes better than this round.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the new Siri delayed?

Apple has encountered significant testing problems including issues with processing queries, slow responses, and accuracy problems. Siri sometimes defaults to ChatGPT instead of the intended Google Gemini technology.

When will the new Siri features be released?

Some features might arrive in iOS 26.5 (May 2026) while others are pushed to iOS 27 (September 2026). The timeline remains fluid as Apple works through technical issues.

What new features are expected for Siri?

The updated Siri will include personalization, onscreen awareness, enhanced in-app capabilities, image generation, and web search summarization. Full chatbot functionality is planned for iOS 27.

Is Apple using ChatGPT for Siri?

While Apple has partnered with Google for Gemini technology, internal testing shows Siri sometimes defaults to ChatGPT even when capable of handling requests itself — highlighting integration problems.

How long have we been waiting for AI Siri?

Apple first announced these features at WWDC 2024 for iOS 18. Originally planned for spring 2025, they were delayed a full year to spring 2026, and now face further delays.

Will iOS 26.4 have any new Siri features?

Apple might still include image generation and web search features in iOS 26.4, giving them something to announce despite broader delays. The situation remains fluid according to Bloomberg.