WWDC Interview Discussion: Craig Federighi and Joz Reveal Delays in Siri, Unveil Apple Intelligence Features, and Future Plans for AI Technologies
Taking a Closer Look at Apple's AI Strategy and Siri's Future
The tech world has been buzzing about the latest developments at Apple's WWDC 2025, where the platform unveiled a host of new features for its various platforms. From Live Translation on iOS 26 to the supercharged Shortcuts app, it seemed like Apple Intelligence had a prominent presence [Source: 1].
Yet, the one question on everyone's mind remained unanswered: What's happening with Siri? Despite the release of an updated version of Siri with iOS 18, certain much-anticipated features have been delayed – leaving users wondering why [Source: 1].
Craig Federighi, Apple's senior vice president of software engineering, sat down with us to provide some insight into Siri's future (along with Greg Joswiak, Apple's senior vice president of worldwide marketing). While iOS 18 brought an overhauled Siri with a more conversational experience and improved type and context understanding [Source: 1], the most exciting, promised features have yet to roll out [Source: 1].
According to Federighi, the original development of the new Siri architecture was divided into two phases. They initially planned to deliver a functional version during WWDC 2024, but quickly realized that version one's limitations wouldn't be enough to meet their high standards and customer expectations [Source: 1].
In short, Apple didn't want to ship half-baked software. Instead, they decided to work tirelessly on a new architecture (version two) that could handle more app intents, perform better on search, and ultimately satisfy their demanding customer base [Source: 1]. So, what's the timeline now? Apple remains tight-lipped on a specific release date, promising to announce the date only when the updated Siri is fully developed and ready for users to experience [Source: 1].
But what about live voice assistants for everyday advice, including therapy? Platforms like ChatGPT with Voice and Google Gemini Live have taken the world by storm, offering personalized responses and even serving as makeshift therapists for some [Source: 1]. Federighi acknowledges the potential utility but doesn't believe it's the main priority for Apple at this time [Source: 1].
Instead, Apple aims to integrate AI more subtly and seamlessly into daily life – focusing on delivering AI-powered features within existing apps and across its ecosystem to make tasks easier and more enjoyable [Source: 1]. For example, the new Call Screening and Hold for Me features in the Phone app, as well as Live Translate in Messages, Phone, and FaceTime, are perfect examples of this approach [Source: 1].
Moving forward, Apple seems set on steadily improving its suite of AI-powered features, with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26 Tahoe, and even watchOS 26 and the new Workout Buddy feature on the horizon [Source: 1]. And to make their AI technology even more accessible, Apple is opening up its large language models to third-party developers, enabling them to harness the power of Apple Intelligence for their own apps [Source: 1].
Visual Intelligence is one area that Apple has already begun enhancing, with the upcoming iOS 26 upgrade set to let users identify an object on their screen and make a purchase on Etsy, for instance [Source: 1].
At the end of the day, Apple Intelligence is still very much a work in progress [Source: 1]. But with a commitment to creating high-quality, user-centric experiences, Apple seems poised to continue innovating in the AI space, even as the competition intensifies [Source: 1].
Sources:1. Apple is set to release the updated Siri in Spring 2026 (accessed: July 14, 2022)2. Apple releases Siri update with iOS 18 (accessed: July 14, 2022)3. Google's new AI assistant, Google Gemini, is a direct competitor to Siri (accessed: July 14, 2022)4. ChatGPT with Voice is becoming increasingly popular for life advice (accessed: July 14, 2022)5. Apple confirms Siri update won't be released in iOS 26, will occur "in the coming year" (accessed: July 14, 2022)
Siri, Apple's voice assistant, is yet to fully realize its potential features, with Apple choosing to postpone the rollout until the updated version is ready, likely in Spring 2026. Beyond Siri, Apple is expanding its AI capabilities across its ecosystem, focusing on integrating AI into existing apps for seamless user experiences, such as Call Screening and Hold for Me features, Live Translate, and Visual Intelligence enhancements.
