New Delhi: Apple is developing an internal artificial intelligence tool to prepare for the launch of a redesigned Siri voice assistant in 2026. The app, codenamed Veritas, is being used by Apple engineers to test and refine generative AI capabilities before the public release.
Unlike public-facing chatbots, Veritas is not intended for consumer use but serves as a testing platform for improving Siri’s conversational abilities. Engineers are using it to simulate real-world interactions, improve response accuracy, and strengthen error-handling. The tool is designed to mirror features seen in existing chatbots, such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini, including follow-up queries and more natural conversation flow.
The revamped Siri will be powered by Apple’s new AI framework, Linwood, which combines the company’s in-house foundation models with select third-party technologies. Reports suggest Apple is exploring integration with models from Anthropic and Google to accelerate development. This hybrid approach highlights Apple’s push to catch up in the broader AI race, where competitors like Google, Samsung, and OpenAI have already made significant advances.
The new Siri, delayed from its earlier expected launch with iOS 18, is now slated for rollout in March 2026. The upgrade will also include a visual redesign, AI-enabled search capabilities, and deeper integration with Apple’s hardware ecosystem, including smart home devices.
Apple’s strategy indicates a cautious but deliberate move to strengthen its position in AI-powered digital assistants. While rivals have openly released advanced chatbot services, Apple continues to prioritize controlled internal testing before a broader release, underlining its focus on stability, privacy, and integration within its ecosystem.
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