For years, Siri has been a staple of the iPhone experience, often compared to Google Assistant.
However, many users find Siri lacking, struggling with even basic commands. While adding reminders and checking the weather is straightforward, more complex tasks often lead to frustration.
But changes are coming. With WWDC 2024 just around the corner, a new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that Siri is about to get a significant upgrade.
The upcoming iOS 18 might see Siri manage emails, organize photos, handle files, and more. Imagine Siri not just following commands but intelligently moving your data around.
Even more intriguing, Siri might soon be able to edit images or compose custom messages and emails on demand. These updates could transform Siri from a simple assistant to a powerful AI tool.
As we anticipate these new features, let’s take a look at how Apple plans to revamp Siri with iOS 18.
1. Command Individual App Functions
Gurman hints that Siri’s AI update will focus heavily on controlling app functions. You’ll soon be able to execute “hundreds” of commands, allowing precise control over your apps.
Think about opening specific documents, summarizing articles, or moving notes between folders, these are advanced tasks we’re not used to seeing in AI apps.
With deep AI integration, you’ll soon have the power to control and customize Apple’s native apps like never before.
2. On-Device AI Support for Simpler Commands
For privacy and speed, Apple aims to execute simpler AI requests on device. However, more complex commands will still need cloud processing. Siri will assess whether a request can be handled locally or needs cloud support.
On-device AI will require an iPhone 15 Pro or later, which might frustrate older iPhone users. Upgrading will be essential to leverage new AI features. Macs and iPads will also need at least an M1 chip for these new features.
3. More Natural, Human-Like Responses
Details about Apple’s partnership with OpenAI are limited, but it is expected to significantly enhance Siri’s capabilities, making its responses more human-like.
With OpenAI’s expertise in natural language processing, Siri could become adept at understanding complex questions, following conversation threads, and generating natural and engaging responses.
With this capability, Siri could have back-and-forth conversations mimicking human dialogue and even incorporate humor or creativity, resulting in a more pleasing overall experience.
4. Handling Multiple Tasks with a Single Request
Initially, Siri’s AI might only process one command at a time. However, Apple plans to enable Siri to handle multiple tasks with a single request in the future.
Imagine summarizing a recorded meeting and sharing it, all with just one command. As these capabilities improve, you’ll be able to manage almost everything by voice alone.
5. New AI Features
Siri can now perform a few basic tasks, such as looking up information, controlling smart devices, or playing music. Apple encourages developers to create commands for Siri, and users can create their own.
An AI-powered Siri will elevate this to the next level. By analyzing how you use your device, Siri will automatically enable features and make them accessible via voice.
A deeper AI integration into iOS will unlock new features. This could include analyzing and summarizing text messages or AI transcription for Notes and Voice Memos.
Wrap Up
Although the new Siri features will be announced at WWDC 2024, Apple doesn’t plan to roll them out with the initial release of iOS 18 in September.
Instead, the Siri overhaul is expected to be part of a later iOS 18 update, scheduled for release in 2025.
Anyway, we’re excited and can’t wait for Apple to confirm all the speculations about the new AI features coming to Siri.
