Apple's Siri 2.0 Upgrade Faces Another Setback, Pushed to Later iOS Versions
Apple's highly anticipated Siri 2.0 update has encountered fresh obstacles during testing, leading to another delay in its rollout. Originally slated for the iOS 26.4 update, the feature is now expected to debut with iOS 26.5 or even iOS 27 later this year, according to a recent report by Bloomberg. This marks the latest in a series of postponements for the voice assistant overhaul, which was first announced in 2024.
Testing Issues Prompt Further Delays
The delay stems from significant challenges uncovered during the testing phase. Siri 2.0 reportedly struggles with processing queries efficiently, often taking too long to handle certain requests or failing to interpret them correctly. Engineers have been instructed to use the upcoming iOS 26.5 update to trial the new Siri features, indicating a shift in the release timeline by at least one cycle.
Internal versions of iOS 26.5 include notices detailing additions to Siri, but key functionalities remain unreliable. Notably, features such as Siri's ability to access personal data and execute multi-step commands through app intents are behind schedule. While support for these exists in the update, they do not function consistently across all scenarios.
Technical Glitches and Performance Concerns
Testers have identified several critical issues with Siri 2.0. Accuracy problems persist, along with a bug that causes the assistant to cut off users mid-sentence when they speak too quickly. Complex queries that require extended processing times are particularly problematic, leading to sluggish responses.
Another major concern is Siri's tendency to fall back on ChatGPT integration instead of utilizing Apple's proprietary technology, even for queries it should handle independently. Reports suggest that internal versions of Siri were so slow in late 2025 that developers believed a delay of several months was inevitable. However, Apple executives remain committed to launching the feature by spring 2026.
Potential Silver Linings and New Features
Despite the setbacks, Apple may introduce two new features with the iOS 26.5 update: a web search tool and a custom image generation option. These were also tested with iOS 26.4 and could be released ahead of the full Siri revamp.
- Web Search Tool: This feature will operate similarly to Perplexity or Google's AI Mode, allowing users to request web-based information and receive synthesized answers with links to relevant websites.
- Image Generation Feature: Leveraging the same engine as Apple's Image Playground app, this tool will enable users to create custom images directly through Siri.
The integration of Google's custom Gemini model for Apple Intelligence features, including Siri, had initially raised hopes for a smoother rollout. However, ongoing technical hurdles have forced Apple to reassess its timeline, leaving users awaiting a more robust and reliable voice assistant experience.
