Apple Announces Major Siri Update at WWDC 2026, Entering Beta Later This Year

Apple unveiled its overhauled AI-powered assistant at its Worldwide Developers Conference on Monday. The new version, called Siri AI, will be available in beta later this year and will launch alongside a dedicated Siri app. The updated assistant can draw on current world knowledge to ground its answers and access information stored on a user’s device.

When users ask for information, Siri will display text cards with results drawn from the web or from text messages. The assistant now lives in the Dynamic Island on modern iPhones, replacing the previous side-screen glow with a new animation. Users can swipe down from the Dynamic Island to search or begin a typed conversation, or they can say “Hey Siri” or press the side button for an in-depth spoken answer.

A new “Write with Siri” feature lets users request help drafting text. In Mail and Messages, the assistant can mirror how the user typically communicates with a specific colleague or friend. Siri received a brand-new voice model that can adjust pace and expressivity.

System-wide dictation gained improved accuracy for spelling, punctuation, and capitalization. On macOS, Siri is now integrated into Spotlight, allowing the search tool to answer questions. On watchOS, users can ask questions and trigger actions directly from the watch.

TechCrunch reported that the redesign aims to turn Siri from a voice-controlled assistant into an AI companion capable of more complex tasks.