Apple is gearing up for the launch of iOS 26.4 in the spring of 2026. Internal concerns are mounting among engineers and senior executives about the readiness of the platform’s flagship feature, a long-delayed revamp of Siri. Mark Gurman, in his latest Power On newsletter, reports that testers working on the update are already flagging performance issues with the upgraded voice assistant, raising fears that it could underwhelm users and exacerbate the company’s ongoing AI struggles.
Testers working on iOS 26.4 are reporting performance issues with the upgraded voice assistant, raising fears that it could underwhelm users and exacerbate the company’s ongoing AI struggles. This news casts a shadow on the highly anticipated Siri revamp.
Apple is reportedly weighing two paths forward: an on-device version powered by its own technology, or a cloud-based iteration leveraging Google’s Gemini via Private Cloud Compute. This uncertainty underscores broader indecision at Cupertino over whether to double down on homegrown tech or partner with external providers like Anthropic or Google.
Apple’s AI Struggles
Apple’s rocky two-year tango with AI adoption has left it playing catch-up to nimble AI startups and entrenched competitors. The potential failure of the Siri upgrade could further erode Apple’s market position in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
A lackluster Siri upgrade could widen the gap between Apple and its competitors in the AI assistant market. Repeated AI setbacks could damage Apple’s reputation for innovation and technological excellence.
High Stakes for Apple’s AI Future
According to Mark Gurman, the success of the upcoming Siri upgrade is crucial for Apple’s AI future. A failed launch could lead to further departures and exacerbate the company’s existing challenges.
“I strongly believe there will be more senior members of the company’s AI ranks hitting the exits soon, especially if the new Siri coming in the spring falls flat. Already, there are concerns from people testing iOS 26.4—the OS version slated to include the new Siri—about the voice assistant’s performance.”
— Mark Gurman, Power On Newsletter
Apple must address the performance concerns surrounding the Siri upgrade and make strategic decisions about its AI development path. The company’s future in the AI market depends on it.
