Apple’s long-awaited update to its voice assistant Siri is facing delays due to engineering challenges and software bugs tied to the integration of Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI platform.
The overhaul was originally planned for an April launch but is now expected in May or later as the company works to finalize the software. The delay may impact future updates to Apple Intelligence, which are planned around the release of the iPhone 17 in September and potentially pushed back to 2026.
Siri’s performance remains inconsistent, with some users testing the new features reporting glitches. However, the company is working quickly to finish the software.
The delays come as competition in the AI assistant space heats up, with rivals like OpenAI and Google pushing forward with their own advanced intelligent assistants. Apple must get Siri’s AI upgrade right to stay ahead of the competition, according to analysts.
Reece Hayden, a lead analyst at ABI Research, said it’s “essential” for Apple to get the update right due to the potential long-term impact on its market position and reputation. He warned that connecting Siri to user data and apps is risky from a data privacy perspective.
The delays also raise concerns about Apple Intelligence in China, where the company is partnering with local firms to bring the software later this year. The partnership comes amid increased competition in the AI assistant space, with rivals leveraging advanced AI tools to lure customers away from iPhones at more competitive prices.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apples-ai-powered-siri-reportedly-faces-delays-amid-software-bugs