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Apple is poised to launch a major overhaul of its Siri voice assistant, with a Gemini-backed version slated for release in the second half of February. The update, reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, would bring the assistant into the next generation of iOS, starting with iOS 26.4.
At a Glance
- Apple may reveal a Gemini-powered Siri in late February.
- The upgrade uses Google’s Gemini AI models, a partnership announced earlier this month.
- Expected to debut in iOS 26.4 beta, with a public release likely in March or April.
Apple’s Siri Upgrade: What We Know
Apple’s long-promised overhaul of Siri is finally expected to be publicly demonstrated, either through private briefings or a dedicated event rather than a large keynote. The new assistant will be integrated into iOS 26.4, which is slated to enter beta testing around the February timeframe.
Gemini Partnership Details
The collaboration between Apple and Google represents a significant shift for the former, which historically relied on its own AI solutions and selective external integrations. By sharing the AI foundation with a rival, Apple signals the intense competitive pressure in the generative-AI race and its ongoing struggle to keep pace with other virtual assistants.
Expected Feature Enhancements
Apple’s upgraded Siri is said to be far more capable than the current version. Key expected improvements include:
- Better screen understanding: The assistant will interpret on-screen content more accurately.
- Personal context usage: It will draw on user data to complete tasks more efficiently.
- Richer conversational responses: Users will receive more natural and detailed replies.
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Current Siri | Gemini-Powered Siri (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Screen comprehension | Basic | Advanced contextual reading |
| Personal data usage | Limited | Extensive contextual integration |
| Conversational depth | Short replies | Detailed, multi-turn dialogue |
| AI model | Apple’s own | Google’s Gemini |
Release Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Late February | Public or private unveiling of Gemini-powered Siri |
| March/April | General release of iOS 26.4 with new Siri |
| June 2026 | Potential WWDC 2026 event for a larger transformation of Siri across iPhone, iPad, and Mac |
Implications for the AI Race
Apple’s decision to partner with Google for its flagship assistant reflects the rapid evolution of generative AI. The move could accelerate the adoption of more sophisticated conversational models across Apple’s ecosystem and reshape how users interact with their devices.
Future Outlook
While Apple has not confirmed specific dates or features, the consistency of reports from Gurman and others has fueled expectations that this long-awaited Siri upgrade may finally be within sight. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Key Takeaways
- Apple’s Gemini-powered Siri could launch in late February.
- The update will be part of iOS 26.4 beta, with a public release in March or April.
- The partnership with Google marks a strategic shift in Apple’s AI strategy.
- A larger transformation of Siri is anticipated for WWDC 2026, potentially across all Apple devices.
- The upgrade promises better screen understanding, richer conversations, and deeper personal context.
