Overview
- Apple is targeting a March–April 2026 release for the revamped assistant as part of iOS 26.4, with Tim Cook recently saying the more personalized Siri remains on track for next year.
- Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports Apple will pay Google for a custom Gemini model that runs on Apple’s servers, enabling AI web search and deeper contextual responses while preserving Apple’s interface.
- The update is expected to introduce features such as in‑app actions, personal context awareness, and on‑screen understanding under the Apple Intelligence umbrella.
- Apple plans to pair the launch with new smart‑home hardware, including a smart display with speaker‑base and wall‑mount options, plus refreshed Apple TV and HomePod mini, as part of a broader 2026 lineup reported to include around 15 products.
- Regulatory hurdles are delaying Apple Intelligence in China with the timeline described as a rolling target, and Gurman cautions there is no guarantee the overhaul will win users or repair Siri’s reputation, with broader AI updates set for preview at WWDC 2026.