Cupertino: Apple is just days away from unveiling iOS 27 at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026, and fresh reports suggest the company is preparing one of the biggest upgrades to Siri since the voice assistant was first introduced. The revamped Siri is expected to become significantly more conversational, bringing it closer to AI chatbots such as ChatGPT. However, not all users may gain access to the new capabilities immediately.
According to reports, Apple is taking a cautious approach to the rollout, with some advanced AI-powered Siri features potentially arriving through a waitlist system when iOS 27 launches later this year.
Siri set for major AI transformation
Apple has reportedly rebuilt Siri using advanced conversational AI technology, allowing users to engage in more natural and context-aware discussions.
Unlike the current version, which primarily responds to direct commands and simple questions, the new Siri is expected to support longer conversations and maintain context throughout interactions. The upgrade is aimed at making Siri feel more like a digital assistant capable of handling complex requests rather than a basic voice command tool.
The move reflects Apple’s efforts to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence race, where competitors have already introduced powerful chatbot-based assistants.
Conversation history to sync across devices
One of the most notable features expected to arrive with the upgraded Siri is conversation history synchronisation.
Reports suggest users will be able to continue conversations seamlessly across multiple Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads and Macs, through iCloud integration.
This means a conversation started on an iPhone could later be resumed on a Mac without losing context, offering a more connected user experience across Apple’s ecosystem.
Apple is also expected to introduce privacy controls that allow users to determine how long conversation histories are stored. Options could reportedly include automatic deletion after 30 days, one year, or indefinite storage based on individual preferences.
Waitlist system may limit early access
Despite the excitement surrounding the overhaul, Apple may not make all of the new Siri features available immediately.
According to reports, the company still internally classifies the upgraded Siri as a “beta” or “preview” product. This suggests Apple may continue refining the technology even after its public introduction.
As a result, some AI-powered capabilities could be rolled out gradually through a waitlist system, similar to the phased launch strategy used for Apple Intelligence features.
Industry observers believe such an approach would help Apple manage server demand, monitor performance and address potential issues before expanding access to a broader user base.
Dedicated Siri app could arrive
Another significant change reportedly under consideration is the introduction of a standalone Siri application.
A dedicated app would allow users to engage in extended conversations with the assistant without being limited to traditional voice commands. This would further align Siri with the functionality offered by leading AI chatbot platforms.
The feature could also serve as a central hub for accessing conversation history, AI-powered assistance and personalised recommendations.
iOS 27 compatibility expectations
Based on current leaks and industry reports, iOS 27 is expected to support the following devices:
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 16 series
- iPhone 17 series
- iPhone SE (3rd Generation)
- Upcoming iPhone 18 series
While these devices may support iOS 27, some advanced AI features could require newer hardware due to the increased processing demands associated with generative AI technologies.
Apple faces growing AI competition
The Siri overhaul comes at a crucial time for Apple as competition in artificial intelligence continues to intensify.
Technology companies across the world are investing heavily in AI-powered assistants capable of generating content, answering complex questions and performing advanced tasks. Apple has faced criticism in recent years for lagging behind rivals in this area.
The introduction of a more conversational Siri is expected to be a central theme of WWDC 2026, demonstrating Apple’s commitment to integrating artificial intelligence more deeply into its ecosystem.
Conclusion
Apple’s upcoming Siri transformation could represent the most significant evolution of the voice assistant in over a decade. With conversational AI, cross-device chat history and potentially a dedicated Siri app, the company appears ready to compete more directly with modern AI chatbots. However, reports suggest some users may need to join a waitlist before gaining access to the most advanced features, indicating that Apple is prioritising a measured rollout as it refines the technology.
