Apple's iOS 27 introduces a significantly upgraded Siri, built on Google's Gemini models rather than the previous ChatGPT-assisted version, and a TechCrunch reviewer reports genuinely returning to using it after years of relying on it only for basic tasks. The relaunch matters because it follows more than two years of delays since Apple first teased an advanced Siri alongside Apple Intelligence, and its reception could shape perceptions of whether Apple has closed the gap with rival AI assistants.

The new Siri handles complex, multi-step requests, such as researching topics and saving notes, drafting and sending messages, and pulling context from a user's files, messages and emails to complete tasks like replying about a delivery. It can also read and reason about on-screen content, including sports statistics and website details, and the Camera app now supports Siri queries about objects in view, such as identifying a drink or recommending menu items from a photographed restaurant sign. Additional updates include a new logo and animation, a dedicated Siri app for revisiting past conversations, customisable voice and expressiveness settings, and planned integration with third-party apps as developers update them.