Apple to Launch AI Search Engine to Enhance Siri Functionality
Apple is reportedly set to launch an AI search engine designed to significantly enhance the capabilities of its Siri voice assistant. The anticipated release, expected in the spring of 2024, aligns with a major overhaul of Siri, which has long been overdue for updates. This new AI-driven experience aims to provide users with a seamless integration of personal context from their device activities, ultimately transforming Siri into a more effective personal assistant.
At the recent World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple confirmed that the much-anticipated update for Siri is still in the pipeline. According to a Bloomberg report, the company has made substantial progress in developing this new system, including the creation of an AI search engine internally referred to as World Knowledge Answers. This system will allow Siri to source information directly from the web, enhancing its ability to respond to user queries with greater accuracy and depth.
Integration of Google’s AI Models
A crucial aspect of this development is Apple’s collaboration with Google. Sources indicate that the two companies formalized an agreement allowing Apple to test Google’s AI models to power its revamped voice assistant. Utilizing Google’s advanced models could be a strategic advantage for Apple, given Google’s longstanding expertise in search engine technology. As of August 2025, Google commanded an impressive 89.83% of the global search engine market share, according to StatCounter.
The new AI search engine is expected to debut alongside the release of iOS 26.4, which will include various features designed to enhance user experience. Among these features are an interface that leverages consumer data—such as text, photos, and local points of interest—and an AI-powered summarization system to provide concise, easily digestible results.
Siri will also gain the ability to navigate users’ devices through voice commands alone, offering a more intuitive way to interact with technology. In addition, a chatbot-like experience for search is reportedly under development, further enhancing the user interaction model.
Competitive Landscape and Future Prospects
The competition in the AI-driven search engine space is intensifying, with other players like Perplexity and ChatGPT making significant strides. As Apple prepares to enter this arena, it will need to differentiate its offerings to compete effectively against established technologies.
Apple’s upcoming announcements are keenly awaited, especially as the company gears up to unveil its iPhone 17 lineup and other products. The enhancements in iOS 26 will be crucial for users, who will be able to access the new features simply by updating their devices.
The prospect of an AI search engine powered by a collaboration with Google may not only rejuvenate Siri’s functionality but also place Apple in a stronger position within the rapidly evolving tech landscape. As these developments unfold, attention will remain focused on how this new engine will perform in real-world applications and whether it can meet the high expectations set by both users and industry analysts.
